Rebel MP accuses cult figure Corbyn of presiding over ‘Farage-ification’ of Labour party
Labour MP Neil Coyle said Mr Corbyn turned a blind eye to the worst elements of his support
JEREMY Corbyn was today accused of presiding over the “Farage-ification” of the Labour party by a rebel MP.
Labour MP Neil Coyle said like Farage, the hard-left leader had created a cult-like following and turned a blind eye to abuse carried out in his name.
The former frontbencher also accused Mr Corbyn of failing to develop any policy.
The Bermondsey and Old Southwark Labour MP told the : “Labour, like Ukip had, has become all about one person. Not about policy or doing what it takes to change people’s lives.
“The comparison goes further. No one is allowed to criticise the leader, there’s a complete absence of detailed policy, they turn a blind eye to the worst elements of their support.
“Most of all there is a culture of blame. Problems are anyone’s fault, the mainstream media and elites, but never his fault.”
A spokesman for Mr Corbyn said: “It is disappointing that Neil Coyle has stooped to personal abuse, which detracts from a debate on the values, principles and policies that will deliver a Labour government.
“Far from ‘turning a blind eye’ to abuse, Jeremy launched the first ever inquiry into anti-Semitism and other forms of racism in the Labour party, and the party is now taking on the report’s recommendations.”
Mr Farage, who stepped down as Ukip leader earlier this month after six years in charge, rubbished the comparison, telling the paper: “We all have our personality.
“But it was about policy. I was more a preacher than a celebrity.”
It is the latest claim that Mr Corbyn is allowing abuse within the party. Last week a group of female MPs wrote to the Labour leader calling on him to step up his efforts to prevent abuse and threats.
The letter said: Rape threats, death threats, smashed cars and bricks through windows are disgusting and totally unacceptable in any situation.
"This is acknowledged by all factions yet the simple words of condemnation offered in response are inadequate. We expect swift and tangible action against those who commit such acts."
Last week former leadership contender Angela Eagle was forced to cancel a planned public advice surgery on the advice of police after safety fears.
Over the weekend Mr Corbyn’s key political ally John McDonnell was accused of “trying to shift away the seriousness” of claims his aide had raided a rebel MP’s office.
The Shadow Chancellor was also filmed calling Labour MPs who had plotted to overthrow Mr Corbyn “f****** useless” at a pro-Corbyn rally.