Kim Johnson apologises for calling Israel a fascist State

Kim Johnson (Labour, Liverpool Riverside) has apologised in the House of Commons for the language she used during Prime Minister's Question Time. 

On a point of order, she said: 

"I would like to apologise unreservedly for the intemperate language I used during PMQs. I was wrong to use the term ‘fascist’ in relation to the Israeli government and understand why this was particularly insensitive given the history of the State of Israel. While there are far-right elements in the government, I recognise that the use of the term in this context was wrong. I would also like to apologise for the use of the term ‘apartheid state.’ While I was quoting accurately Amnesty’s description, I recognise this was insensitive and I would like to withdraw it. 

Stephen Crabb (Conservative, Preseli Pembrokeshire) said the use of terms like ‘fascist’ and ‘apartheid state’ were not just incentive, but also a breach of the IHRA definition of antisemitism. He asked the Deputy Speaker for advice about tackling “deep-rooted antisemitism” which was “so evident on the left of politics.” 

It is understood Ms Johnson was called into the Labour Chief Whip’s office and asked to apologise for her remarks or face suspension as a Labour MP.