Andy McDonald: Labour suspends MP for comments at Pro-Palestinian rally

Andy McDonald has been suspended as a Labour MP, after the party said he had made "deeply offensive" comments relating to the Israel-Gaza war.

The MP for Middlesbrough used the phrase "between the river and the sea" in a speech at a pro-Palestine rally.

Critics of the chant argue it implicitly calls for the destruction of Israel, although pro-Palestinian protesters have contested this.

He will now sit as an independent MP, pending an investigation.

In his speech at a demonstration on Saturday, Mr McDonald said: "We will not rest until we have justice. Until all people, Israelis and Palestinians, between the river and the sea, can live in peaceful liberty."

A Labour spokesperson said: "The comments made by Andy McDonald at the weekend were deeply offensive, particularly at a time of rising antisemitism which has left Jewish people fearful for their safety.

"The chief whip has suspended the Labour whip from Andy McDonald, pending an investigation."