Chris Williamson preparing to sue Labour over re-suspension
Jeremy Corbyn-supporter is to take legal steps against the party in a bid to 'overturn the unconstitutional decision'
MP Chris Williamson is suing Labour over his re-suspension for claiming the party was “too apologetic” on antisemitism.
The strong supporter of Jeremy Corbyn is preparing for potentially embarrassing court action against Labour in a bid to get readmitted to the party.
The Derby North MP said he was hoping to “overturn the unconstitutional decision” to reimpose his suspension from the “party I love”.
A source close to Mr Williamson told PA that legal papers had already been filed in court. No further information was immediately provided.
Labour is understood to be confident its rules were followed and that there will be no successful grounds for a challenge.
Mr Williamson was originally suspended in February after he told a meeting of the Momentum campaign group that Labour was being “demonised” over the crisis.
But, in July, a panel of Labour’s National Executive Committee ruled that the suspension should be lifted following a formal warning.
The suspension was reimposed two days later after an outcry from MPs and Jewish groups.
The case is currently being considered by a new antisemitism panel.
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The MP was suspended in February after footage emerged of him telling the meeting that Labour’s reaction to antisemitism allegations had led to the party being “demonised”.
Asked about the legal action, a Labour Party spokeswoman said: “Chris Williamson is suspended from the Labour Party pending a hearing of the National Constitutional Committee, Labour’s highest disciplinary body.
“We do not give a running commentary on individual cases.”
A campaign group was attempting to crowdfund £75,000 to support Mr Williamson’s legal bid.
This week, Jewish News reported that a new movement – which describes antisemitism in Labour as “unfounded smears” is to launch with the apparent backing of a left-wing group whose honorary president is shadow chancellor John McDonnell, as well as Williamson and expelled Labour member Jackie Walker.
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