Jeremy Corbyn has been strongly condemned by the Home Affairs Select Committee for failing to understand anti-Semitism and creating a “safe space” for racists in the Labour Party. The inquiry’s damning findings are laid out in as severe language as you will ever see from a select committee:

“Despite his proud record on fighting racism, the Committee is not persuaded that Mr Corbyn fully appreciates the distinct nature of contemporary antisemitism, and the fact that it is perfectly possible for an ‘anti-racist campaigner’ to express antisemitic views. His lack of consistent leadership on this issue has created what some have referred to as a ‘safe space’ for those with vile attitudes towards Jewish people, exacerbated by the Party’s demonstrable incompetence at dealing with members accused of antisemitism.”

Much of the committee’s evidence is based on stories published by Guido, its report references this site’s revelations on Naz Shah, Salim Mulla, Vicki Kirby, Seumas Milne and others. The committee also reserves criticism for Shami Chakrabarti, describing her own anti-Semitism inquiry as “compromised” and questioning its independence. The report concludes Labour is now “an unwelcoming place for Jewish members”.

There is also strong condemnation of Tim Farron and the Liberal Democrats’ dire response to anti-Semitism, following Guido’s stories on former MP and current LibDem councillor David Ward:

“We were disappointed by the manner in which their Leader, Tim Farron, referred to disciplinary processes rather than explicitly condemning antisemitic remarks made by members of his Party, and we were surprised to learn that Cllr David Ward remains an elected representative of the Liberal Democrats, despite his repeated antisemitic comments… He denied that Cllr Ward was a “repeat offender” and said that it was “very tricky” to judge whether an individual has been antisemitic or “just provocative and offensive”.”

Questions for Corbyn, Shami and Farron to answer…