Corbyn allies disappointed at row with Sultana over new party

"Allies of Jeremy Corbyn have said they are "disappointed" at the deep divisions which have emerged between Zarah Sultana and the former Labour leader over the formation of a new party."

"On Thursday, Sultana accused Corbyn of overseeing a "sexist boys' club", saying she had been sidelined by other members of the party's working group."

"In a statement, Corbyn said the emails were "unauthorised" and should be ignored, while any direct debits set up should be "immediately cancelled"."

"In a statement on Thursday, Sultana said she had launched a membership portal to allow supporters to "continue to engage and organise"."

Allies of Jeremy Corbyn say they are disappointed at deep divisions between Zarah Sultana and Corbyn over forming a new party. Some involved believe further reconciliation attempts should be made but are not hopeful of success. Supporters still see appetite for a new left-wing party and want to proceed. Sultana accused Corbyn of overseeing a "sexist boys' club" and said she had been sidelined by working-group members. An email invited supporters to sign up for paid membership at £5 a month or £55 a year; Sultana claimed over 20,000 sign-ups. Corbyn called the emails "unauthorised" and urged cancellation of any direct debits. A founding statement was signed by four independent MPs with Sultana's name omitted. Campaign material refers to the venture as "Your Party" and some allies suspect Sultana sought to mount a leadership bid before formal founding.

Read at www.bbc.com