City MP backs calls for Corbyn to act on harassment claims

A Wearside MP has written to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding an end to intimidation over the leadership election.

Washington and Sunderland West’s Sharon Hodgson is one of more than 40 female MPs to have signed a letter demanding the party get to grips with a spate of threats and harassment.

“Rape threats, death threats, smashed cars and bricks through windows are disgusting and totally unacceptable in any situation, it says.

“This is acknowledged by all factions yet the simple words of condemnation offered in response are inadequate. We expect swift and tangible action against those who commit such acts.

“The culture of hatred and division that is being sown does not benefit anybody, not the party, not the leader and certainly not the British people.

“We hope that a significant shift takes place within the Labour party regarding the way we deal with future incidents.”

Mrs Hodgson said ultimate responsibility for tackling the situation lay at the top: “Jeremy is the Leader of the Labour Party and is in the unique position whereby he can actually do something about the concerns raised by Labour women MPs on abuse and threatening behaviour, rather than making warm platitudes that it should not be carried out in his name.

“Threatening language and behaviour, along with abuse – may this be on social media, on platforms or at rallies – should not be tolerated and must be challenged immediately by Jeremy himself and swift action taken, rather than sitting back and continuing to let it happen.”