Telegraph correct “significantly misleading” Corbyn anti-Semitism story
The Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) has censured the Telegraph over a “significantly misleading” headline, which ‘distorted’ comments made by a Jewish MP about Jeremy Corbyn, writes Jack Mendel.
In a page two story printed in August, the paper claimed Ivan Lewis MP criticised the new Labour leader as being an ‘anti-Semite’.
Originally titled ‘Labour grandees round on ‘anti-Semite’ Corbyn’’, the article quotes a piece Lewis wrote. He was quoted as having said: “Some of his stated political views are a cause for serious concern.”
“At the very least he has shown very poor judgment in expressing support for and failing to speak out against people who have engaged not in legitimate criticism of Israeli governments but in anti-Semitic rhetoric.”
He was also quoted as having written: “It saddens me to have to say to some on the left of British politics that anti-racism means zero tolerance of anti-Semitism, no ifs, and no buts. I have said the same about Islamaphobia and other forms of racism to a minority of my constituents who make unacceptable statements.”
Lewis complained to the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO), accusing the paper of misrepresenting these comments, to imply he had said Corbyn was anti-Semitic.
Ipso agreed said the Telegraph had “prominently and without qualification” claimed the Labour leader was anti-Semitic.
“The coverage was therefore significantly misleading.. The newspaper had distorted [Lewis’s] comment on this issue,” according to the Guardian.
The Telegraph has been ordered to publish a correction online and print, a “front-page reference”, as the story appeared on the front.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
