Corbyn announces new probe into Livingstone comments in wake of suspension

Jeremy Corbyn has expressed “deep disappointment” that Ken Livingstone has failed to apologise for the “deep hurt” he’s caused the Jewish community – and revealed his latest comments opened him up to further disciplinary action.

The Labour leader said he respected the independence of the three-person panel which yesterday decided not to expel the former London mayor, and only to suspend him for a further month.

But in a strongly-worded attack on his long-term political ally, he said Livingstone’s remarks were “grossly insensitive, and he has caused deep offence and hurt to the Jewish community”.

He said: “It is deeply disappointing that, despite his long record of standing up to racism, Ken has failed to acknowledge or apologise for the hurt he has caused. Many people are understandably upset that he has continued to make offensive remarks which could open him to further disciplinary action.

“Since initiating the disciplinary process, I have not interfered with it and respect the independence of the party’s disciplinary bodies. But Ken’s subsequent comments and actions will now be considered by the National Executive Committee after representations from party members.”