corbyn williamson
© Reuters / Andrew Yates (Bottom left) Chris Williamson MP AFP / PRU / HO"Main) Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn with party activists
Left-wing MP Chris Williamson is suing Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party over their decision to reimpose his suspension following allegations of anti-Semitism. A crowdfunding page has been set-up to help with his legal fees.

Williamson, the MP for Derby North and key ally of Labour leader Corbyn, is challenging the party's right to withdraw the whip from him (i.e., suspend him) just two days after he was reinstated following a disciplinary hearing.

The 62 year-old has taken to social media to thank supporters who have contributed to cover court costs to help "overturn the unconstitutional decision to 're-suspend' me from the party I love."

Williamson has lodged legal papers which have been put before a court and sent to Labour's general secretary, Jennie Formby. The party is expected to defend its decision, which could lead to a highly embarrassing court case.

Labour had originally handed Williamson a reprimand over remarks he made suggesting that the party had been "too apologetic" over the anti-Semitism "crisis" that has dogged it over many months.

It comes a week after Williamson was forced to change the venue of an event he had been due to speak at in Brighton, after hotel staff were allegedly subjected to social media abuse and threats of violence.