JEREMY Corbyn’s Labour party may have illegally discriminated against Jews, the equalities watchdog said today.
The party could face legal action after the Equality and Human Rights Commission announced a historic probe over anti-Semitism, it was revealed this morning.
Rex Features
The watchdog have announced they will look into whether the party is institutionally anti-Semitic and if it’s broken the law.
They said today that after a “number of complaints” Labour may have “unlawfully discriminated against people because of their ethnicity and beliefs”.
The move by the independent and respected watchdog is the biggest blow yet to the Labour leader comes as the party continue to be embroiled in an ongoing row over anti-Jewish hate in the party.
It comes after the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) and Campaign Against Anti-Semitism submitted dossiers of evidence to them last year.
An Equality and Human Rights Commission spokesperson said today: “Having received a number of complaints regarding antisemitism in the Labour Party, we believe Labour may have unlawfully discriminated against people because of their ethnicity and religious beliefs. Our concerns are sufficient for us to consider using our statutory enforcement powers. As set out in our enforcement policy, we are now engaging with the Labour Party to give them an opportunity to respond.”
Labour has yet to comment.
The JLM told the Jewish Chronicle last night: “We did not take this decision lightly.
“After years of anti-Jewish racism experienced by our members, and a long pattern of denial, obfuscation and inaction by those with the power and ability to do something about it, we felt there was little choice but to secure a fully independent inquiry, not encumbered by corrupted internal practices.
“Everything that has happened in the months since our referral supports our view that the Labour Party is now institutionally antisemitic.”
Yesterday a series of leaks of emails alleged that Mr Corbyn’s team had been involved in decisions on anti-Semitism allegations.
Key staff had asked to be copied in on complaints, and were shown to argue against suspensions.
Labour sources insisted the practise has now ended and the leaks were from a disgruntled former employee.
PA:Press Association
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