Labour MP resigns over anti-Semitic Facebook post

A Labour MP has stepped down as a ministerial aide to John McDonnell over anti-Semitic comments she posted on Facebook.

Naz Shah became Labour MP for Bradford in the May 2015 general election, defeating the incumbent George Galloway. Labour party

Naz Shah, the MP for Bradford, shared a graphic in August 2014 before she became an MP that suggested Israel should be relocated to the United States as a "solution" for conflict in Israel-Palestine. She added a comment: "problem solved" and suggested the plan could "save them some pocket money".

The image suggested Israeli people would be welcome in the US and "transportation cost" would amount to less than three years' of Washington's support for Israel's defence spending.

Shah has apologised and resigned from her role as parliamentary private secretary to the shadow chancellor, John McDonnell.

However Shah has remained a member of the House of Commons select committee that is currently investigating the rise of anti-semitism.

In a statement released by the Labour party she said: "I deeply regret the hurt I have caused by comments made on social media before I was elected as an MP.

"I made these posts at the height of the Gaza conflict in 2014, when emotions were running high around the Middle East conflict. But that is no excuse for the offence I have given, for which I unreservedly apologise.

"In recognition of that offence I have stepped down from my role as PPS to the shadow chancellor John McDonnell. I will be seeking to expand my existing engagement and dialogue with Jewish community organisations, and will be stepping up my efforts to combat all forms of racism, including antisemitism."

The scandal was revealed by the political website Guide Fawkes and comes as the latest in a line of exposures of anti-Semitic remarks made by Labour members.

A number of Conservative MPs have said Shah should be expelled as a Labour MP. 

related articles
Faith leaders committed to tackling anti-semitism together

Faith leaders committed to tackling anti-semitism together

Auschwitz anniversary a \'reminder of what happens when we remain silent\'
Auschwitz anniversary a 'reminder of what happens when we remain silent'

Auschwitz anniversary a 'reminder of what happens when we remain silent'

The state of Israel \'has every right\' to exist and prosper, says Pope
The state of Israel 'has every right' to exist and prosper, says Pope

The state of Israel 'has every right' to exist and prosper, says Pope

Oxford University Labour Club embroiled in accusations of anti-Semitism

Oxford University Labour Club embroiled in accusations of anti-Semitism

Is anti-semitism on the rise in the Labour party?

Is anti-semitism on the rise in the Labour party?

News
Shine, Jesus, Shine remix launched for Christmas evangelism campaign
Shine, Jesus, Shine remix launched for Christmas evangelism campaign

The project was divinely inspired, says the organiser

Sudanese human rights activist assaulted in Newcastle
Sudanese human rights activist assaulted in Newcastle

The assault happened outside Newcastle City Hall, said Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

Gaza's Christians praying for a peaceful Christmas
Gaza's Christians praying for a peaceful Christmas

Conditions remain tough for Gaza's Christians despite the ceasefire.

Churches across the UK are getting into the Christmas spirit
Churches across the UK are getting into the Christmas spirit

Cathedrals and churches across the UK are embracing Advent with a flurry of festive markets, carol services and community events.