Labour is no longer a broad church. It is intolerant of those who speak their minds – The Observer

It has become increasingly apparent that differing views are not tolerated in the Labour party and every opinion is judged on whether it is acceptable to the party leadership. This started shortly after Jeremy became leader, as colleagues with whom I had previously thought I shared a similar political outlook began expecting me to do a U-turn and take positions I would never have otherwise agreed with – whether on national security or the EU single market.

When Momentum’s activists in my local party voted to censure me, it was hardly a surprise. After all, I’m the latest in a line of Labour MPs to be told we are not welcome – all for speaking our minds. My parliamentary colleague Joan Ryan received similar treatment because she resolutely stood up to antisemitism.

In my case, the censure motion criticised me for disagreeing with Jeremy Corbyn. I do. On the importance of a responsible economic policy, on national security, on Europe, ironically similar issues on which Jeremy disagreed with previous leaders.

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