Rupa Huq welcomes independent inquiry into anti-Semitism in Labour party

Ealing Central and Acton Labour MP, Rupa Huq, has admitted she was 'naive' to take part in a radio programme defending her colleague, Naz Shah, and has welcomed the party's inquiry into anti-Semitism.

Ms Shah, Labour member for Bradford West, was suspended over posts she made on social media - before she became an MP - which suggested Israelis should be relocated to the United States.

The Ealing and Acton MP faced a barrage of criticism after speaking up for Ms Shah on the Today Programme (Thursday 28 April) and was accused of trivialising the issue. The Leader of the Conservative group on Ealing Council, Councillor Gregory Stafford, has called for her suspension.

Speaking exclusively to EalingToday.co.uk Ms Huq said she took the call from the BBC whilst she was on a train and accepts that she should never have done the interview:

''I take anti-Semitism and all forms of racism extremely seriously. Not being her Facebook friend, I wasn’t fully aware of all the posts of Naz Shah at the time but have seen them since and agree that they are simply abhorrent and have no place in the Labour party which campaigns for a two state solution and peaceful co-existence. She has rightly apologised and been suspended. Her comments need to be fully investigated so due process can take place.

''I’ve learned that I was naïve in my morning interview without being in full receipt of the facts and that I won’t be doing any more interviews on trains. I’d also like to assure that any constituent who has experienced racism, anti-Semitism or prejudice know that they can come to me for support and assistance.''

Meanwhile Ealing's Labour Party has welcomed the announcement of an independent inquiry into anti-Semitism and other forms of racism in the Labour Party.

It comes following the suspensions of Naz Shah and ex-London mayor Ken Livingstone.

Ealing Cabinet Member, Councillor Peter Mason, speaking on BBC news, said the party had a long Jewish socialist tradition, and everyone should be welcome in 'an inclusive diverse party'.

The inquiry, will be led by Shami Chakrabarti, former head of campaign group Liberty and will consult with the Jewish community and other minority groups.

April 30, 2016