Critics say there should be ‘no way back’ to Labour for Livingstone

Labour MPS have warned the resignation of Ken Livingstone from the party must not mark the end of moves to tackle anti-semitism in its ranks.

The former London mayor announced on Monday he was quitting Labour, saying the allegations against him of anti-semitism had become a “distraction” for the party.

But among MPS who have led the campaign against antisemitism there was anger and frustration that Mr Livingstone would escape formal expulsion proceedings.

Backbencher Wes Streeting, who has been at the forefront of the campaign against 0 Ken Livingstone says claims against him are ‘a distraction’ anti-semitism in Labour, said there must be no way back for the former mayor.

“We must now make it clear that he will never be welcome to return. His vocal cheerlead- ers and supporters should follow him out the door,” he said.

Fellow MP Ruth Smeeth said: “Ken Livingstone’s behaviour has been grossly offensive to British Jews. The truth is that Ken’s despicable and hurtful attitude should have seen him expelled years ago.”

However, Chris Williamson, said the former mayor was a “towering figure” who had popularised “progressive socialism” while opposing all forms of racism.

Mr Livingstone was suspended in 2016 after claiming in a radio interview that Hitler had supported Zionism in the 1930s.