Chris Williamson (politician)#Views on handling of antisemitism allegations

Born in Derby, Williamson attended the St. John Fisher Primary School in Alvaston, Castle Donington High School and St. Thomas More High School in Allenton. After working as a craft apprentice for a year from 1972, Williamson then worked as a bricklayer for six years. He continued his education at Leicester Polytechnic (now De Montfort University), where he obtained a professional social work qualification (a CQSW) in 1985.{{citation needed|date=May 2015}} He was a social worker in Derby from 1983 to 1986 before working as a welfare rights officer.

Williamson joined the Labour Party in 1976. He became a councillor on Derby City Council in 1991. Appointed Chair of Housing, he supported private finance initiative (PFI) projects.{{cite news|last=Casalicchio|first=Emilio|url=https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/jeremy-corbyn/house/house-magazine/94700/chris-williamson-|title=Chris Williamson: 'It's like all my Christmases have come together – the sort of Labour party I dreamed about'|work=Politics Home|agency=The House|date=26 April 2018|access-date=28 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180427053735/https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/jeremy-corbyn/house/house-magazine/94700/chris-williamson-|archive-date=27 April 2018|url-status=live}} Interviewed in 2018, he termed his approach then as "innovative pragmatism", seeking to "be as radical as we possibly could within the confines that we were subjected to by central government", arguing that "It was a bullshit scheme—I wouldn't have chosen it at all. It didn't give value for money. But what were we supposed to do as a local authority? We either [do it or] say we are not going to build these schools or we are not going to refurbish these unfit dwellings."

He became leader of the Labour Group on Derby City Council, serving as leader of the council on two separate occasions. While council leader, Williamson presided over a coalition with the Conservatives for two years after Labour lost its majority in 2006.{{cite news|url=https://www.theredroar.com/2018/01/chris-williamsons-tory-love-in-backbencher-formed-alliance-with-conservatives-as-labour-leader-of-derby-council/|title=Chris Williamson's Tory love-in: backbencher formed alliance with Conservatives as Labour leader of Derby council|date=24 January 2018|access-date=6 July 2019|work=Red Roar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190706043003/https://www.theredroar.com/2018/01/chris-williamsons-tory-love-in-backbencher-formed-alliance-with-conservatives-as-labour-leader-of-derby-council/|archive-date=6 July 2019|url-status=live}} He was instrumental in setting up Holocaust Memorial Day events in the city.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/jul/01/chris-williamson-labour-mp-antisemitism-row|title=Chris Williamson: 'no place' in Labour for MP embroiled in antisemitism row|last=Parveen|first=Nazia|date=1 July 2019|access-date=4 October 2019|work=The Guardian|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191113234714/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/jul/01/chris-williamson-labour-mp-antisemitism-row|archive-date=13 November 2019|url-status=live}}

In the 2010 general election, Williamson was elected for Derby North with a majority of 613 over the Conservative candidate.

Williamson supported Ed Miliband in the 2010 Labour leadership election.{{cite web|url=http://www2.labour.org.uk/leadership-mps-and-meps|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110101171158/http://www2.labour.org.uk/leadership-mps-and-meps|archive-date=1 January 2011|title=Leadership – MPs and MEPs – The Labour Party|date=1 January 2011}}

In October 2010, Williamson became Shadow Fire and Emergency Services Minister within the Shadow Communities and Local Government team after just four months as an MP but, after a reshuffle of the shadow cabinet in 2013, was replaced by Lyn Brown.{{Cite news|url=http://www.leftfutures.org/2013/10/ed-miliband-shifts-leftwards-at-conference-but-rightwards-in-the-plp/|title=Ed Miliband shifts Leftwards at conference but Rightwards in the PLP|date=9 October 2013|work=Left Futures|access-date=10 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803074636/http://www.leftfutures.org/2013/10/ed-miliband-shifts-leftwards-at-conference-but-rightwards-in-the-plp/|archive-date=3 August 2017|url-status=live}} He served as a member of the Communities and Local Government Committee between July and November 2010 and from November 2013 to March 2015.

In 2014, Williamson voted to support the Cameron coalition's 2011 military intervention in Libya and the British action against ISIS in Iraq. In April 2018, Williamson said that, while he was initially undetermined, he was "naive" to support the votes. He abstained on the Immigration Bill in 2014, following an instruction from Labour whips, saying later: "I have to say—if I'm being honest—I didn't study it enough or fully appreciate the implications."

Williamson was one of 16 signatories of an open letter to Ed Miliband in January 2015 calling on the party to oppose further austerity, take rail franchises back into public ownership and strengthen collective bargaining arrangements.{{cite news|last1=Eaton|first1=George|title=The Labour left demand a change of direction – why their intervention matters|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/2015/01/labour-left-demand-change-direction-why-their-intervention-matters|access-date=5 April 2015|work=New Statesman|date=26 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150412090810/http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/2015/01/labour-left-demand-change-direction-why-their-intervention-matters|archive-date=12 April 2015|url-status=live}}

At the 2015 general election, Williamson lost the Derby North seat to Amanda Solloway of the Conservative Party by 41 votes. Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn described Williamson in early 2016 as a "very great friend", saying that his defeat at the 2015 general election was "the worst result of that night".{{cite news|url=http://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/corbyn-chris-williamson-losing-derby-north-worst/story-28718402-detail/story.html|title=Corbyn: Chris Williamson losing Derby North was 'the worst result of that night'|work=Derby Telegraph|date=11 February 2016|access-date=12 June 2017}}{{Dead link|date=July 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

During the 2017 general election campaign, he was described by the New Statesman as the "most pro-Jeremy Corbyn candidate in England's most marginal constituency".{{cite news|last=Chakelian|first=Anoosh|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/june2017/2017/05/life-labour-s-most-pro-jeremy-corbyn-candidate-england-s-most-marginal|title=Life as Labour's most pro-Jeremy Corbyn candidate in England's most marginal constituency|work=New Statesman|date=10 May 2017|access-date=12 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170609133732/http://www.newstatesman.com/politics/june2017/2017/05/life-labour-s-most-pro-jeremy-corbyn-candidate-england-s-most-marginal|archive-date=9 June 2017|url-status=live}} Williamson said that his candidacy would be a "test case for Corbynism",{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/jeremy-corbyn-must-absolutely-remain-labour-leader-should-he-lose-the-election-says-ally-chris-williamson_uk_59089d43e4b0bb2d0871f129 |title=Corbyn Must 'Absolutely' Remain Labour Leader Even If He Loses The Election, Says Ally|work=HuffPost UK|date=3 May 2017|access-date=12 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170613091554/http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/jeremy-corbyn-must-absolutely-remain-labour-leader-should-he-lose-the-election-says-ally-chris-williamson_uk_59089d43e4b0bb2d0871f129 |archive-date=13 June 2017|url-status=live}} and Corbyn campaigned for him. Williamson regained his former seat from Amanda Solloway of the Conservatives with a majority of 2,015 votes.

On 3 July 2017, Williamson was appointed Shadow Fire and Emergency Services Minister.{{Cite news|url=https://newsocialist.org.uk/reshuffle-2-the-ma/|title=Reshuffle 2: The Maintenance of the Malcontents|date=8 July 2017|work=New Socialist.|access-date=10 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171031024616/https://newsocialist.org.uk/reshuffle-2-the-ma/|archive-date=31 October 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://press.labour.org.uk/post/162548382729/jeremy-corbyn-appoints-20-mps-to-labours-front|title=Jeremy Corbyn appoints 20 MPs to Labour's front bench|website=Labour Press|access-date=10 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706130458/http://press.labour.org.uk/post/162548382729/jeremy-corbyn-appoints-20-mps-to-labours-front|archive-date=6 July 2017|url-status=live}} Williamson resigned this role on 11 January 2018. A day earlier he said that council tax on the highest-value homes should be doubled. The comment, which was not party policy and outside his remit, was made without the knowledge of Andrew Gwynne, the shadow secretary of state for communities and local government. When the issue was raised, Williamson, rather than agree to confine his public statements to his own policy area, resigned. He said: "I've taken this decision to bring me closer to the membership of our party and to allow me to work on a broader range of issues, from environmental policy to animal rights and local government."{{cite news|last=Stewart|first=Heather|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/jan/11/chris-williamson-quits-labour-frontbench-after-double-council-tax-call|title=Chris Williamson quits Labour frontbench after 'double council tax' call|work=The Guardian|date=11 January 2018|access-date=11 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180111153949/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/jan/11/chris-williamson-quits-labour-frontbench-after-double-council-tax-call|archive-date=11 January 2018|url-status=live}}

In April 2018, Williamson voiced doubts that the Syrian government was responsible for the gas attack on Douma.{{cite web |last=Harrison |first=Tristia |url=https://www.newstatesman.com/world/middle-east/2018/08/labour-can-be-jo-cox-s-party-or-chris-williamson-s-it-cannot-be-both |title=Labour can be Jo Cox's party or Chris Williamson's – it cannot be both |work=Newstatesman.com |date=21 August 2018 |access-date=20 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181126095758/https://www.newstatesman.com/world/middle-east/2018/08/labour-can-be-jo-cox-s-party-or-chris-williamson-s-it-cannot-be-both |archive-date=26 November 2018 |url-status=live }} In August 2018, he said it was a "privilege" to hear a talk by a pro-Assad blogger, Vanessa Beeley.{{cite web |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/labour-mp-chris-williamson-vanessa-beeley_uk_5b7adee4e4b018b93e963784 |title=Labour's Chris Williamson Praises Vanessa Beeley, Blogger Who Called Jo Cox A 'Warmongering Blairite' |work=Huffingtonpost.co.uk |date=20 August 2018 |access-date=16 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180929041331/https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/labour-mp-chris-williamson-vanessa-beeley_uk_5b7adee4e4b018b93e963784 |archive-date=29 September 2018 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=https://www.newstatesman.com/world/middle-east/2018/08/labour-can-be-jo-cox-s-party-or-chris-williamson-s-it-cannot-be-both|title=Labour can be Jo Cox's party or Chris Williamson's – it cannot be both|work=Newstatesman.com|date=21 August 2018|access-date=20 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181126095758/https://www.newstatesman.com/world/middle-east/2018/08/labour-can-be-jo-cox-s-party-or-chris-williamson-s-it-cannot-be-both|archive-date=26 November 2018|url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Friedman |first=Gabe |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-labour-mp-slammed-for-praising-anti-semitic-pro-assad-conspiracist/ |title=UK Labour MP slammed for praising anti-Semitic pro-Assad conspiracist |work=The Times of Israel |date=22 August 2018 |access-date=20 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190221113512/https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-labour-mp-slammed-for-praising-anti-semitic-pro-assad-conspiracist/ |archive-date=21 February 2019 |url-status=live }}

He says that, with Corbyn as leader, the party has "a common-sense socialist" who does not place MPs in the situation of risking being in conflict with the party whips. Williamson said he is "not one for undermining the leadership publicly", explaining the difference between his history in the division lobbies and Corbyn's earlier frequent parliamentary vote rebellions as Corbyn expressing the opinions of party members.

Williamson supported a mandatory reselection process for all Labour MPs. In 2018, Williamson, Fire Brigades Union leader Matt Wrack and ASLEF president Tosh McDonald toured England and Wales to promote this and other internal reforms which would provide "greater democracy and accountability within the party". Williamson said the tour, which was titled The Democracy Roadshow, would promote "common sense socialism" in the Labour movement and "ensure the "transformative" change promised by Mr Corbyn can be delivered in government".{{cite news |title=Labour MP Chris Williamson's 'democracy roadshow' criticised |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-45258341 |access-date=15 November 2020 |publisher=BBC News |date=21 August 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/jul/09/labour-mp-chris-williamson-democracy-roadshow-mandatory-reselection|title=Labour MP Chris Williamson launches 'democracy' roadshow|last=Crerar|first=Pippa|date=9 July 2018|access-date=6 August 2019|work=The Guardian|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190806073650/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2018/jul/09/labour-mp-chris-williamson-democracy-roadshow-mandatory-reselection|archive-date=6 August 2019|url-status=live}}

In 2017, Williamson said that attacks on Corbyn's handling of antisemitism within the Labour Party were "proxy wars and bullshit" and that "I'm not saying it never ever happens but it is a really dirty, lowdown trick, particularly the antisemitism smears. Many people in the Jewish community are appalled by what they see as the weaponisation of antisemitism for political ends."{{cite news|last=Mason|first=Rowena|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2017/aug/28/make-labour-leadership-rules-more-democratic-urges-shadow-minister|title=MPs should have no say over who leads Labour, argues shadow minister|work=The Guardian|date=28 August 2017|access-date=2 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002215225/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2017/aug/28/make-labour-leadership-rules-more-democratic-urges-shadow-minister|archive-date=2 October 2017|url-status=live}} Marie van der Zyl, the Board of Deputies vice-president, said that Williamson should "show solidarity with those suffering racism within his own party rather than blaming the victims".{{cite news|last=Harpin|first=Lee|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/labour-mp-chris-williamson-dismisses-jew-hate-allegations-1.443446|title=Anger as 'deplorable' Labour MP dismisses antisemitism allegations as 'smears'|work=The Jewish Chronicle|date=29 August 2017|access-date=2 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002215617/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/labour-mp-chris-williamson-dismisses-jew-hate-allegations-1.443446|archive-date=2 October 2017|url-status=live}} Williamson described antisemitism as being "utterly repugnant and a scourge on society, which is why I stand in absolute solidarity with anyone who is subjected to antisemitic abuse".{{cite news|last=Harpin|first=Lee|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/labour-mp-chris-williamson-dismisses-jew-hate-allegations-1.443446|title=Anger as 'deplorable' Labour MP dismisses antisemitism allegations as 'smears'|work=The Jewish Chronicle|date=29 August 2017|access-date=2 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002215617/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/labour-mp-chris-williamson-dismisses-jew-hate-allegations-1.443446|archive-date=2 October 2017|url-status=live}} He added that his critics' "accusations of anti-Semitism (against him) were positively sinister" and "highly offensive and hurtful" in suggesting "that I was an anti-Semite myself, yet I have fought racism all my adult life".{{cite news|last=Williamson|first=Chris|url=http://www.tribunemagazine.org/2017/09/agenda-setting-8/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170924121639/http://www.tribunemagazine.org/2017/09/agenda-setting-8/|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 September 2017|title=Agenda setting|work=Tribune|date=9 September 2017|access-date=2 October 2017}}

In April 2018, Williamson referenced Ken Livingstone: "We've got these ridiculous suspensions and expulsions from the party" made "in the most grotesque and unfair way".{{cite news|last=Harpin|first=Lee|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/chris-williamson-condemned-by-board-of-deputies-after-calling-for-ken-livingstone-to-be-reinstated-by-labour-party-1.460999|title=Board of Deputies condemns Labour MP's comments backing Ken Livingstone|work=The Jewish Chronicledate=19 March 2018|access-date=18 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180419053413/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/chris-williamson-condemned-by-board-of-deputies-after-calling-for-ken-livingstone-to-be-reinstated-by-labour-party-1.460999|archive-date=19 April 2018|url-status=live}} Supporting Len McCluskey, who had accused some Labour MPs of using the issue of antisemitism in campaigning against Corbyn, he described some of his colleagues as "malcontents" who were "completely out of step with party members" and voters,{{cite news|last=Fisher|first=Lucy|url=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/sir-keir-starmer-hits-back-at-union-leader-len-mccluskey-in-antisemitism-row-7gg0chqdc|title=Sir Keir Starmer hits back at Union leader Len McCluskey in antisemitism row|work=The Times|date=26 April 2018|access-date=28 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180427183755/https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/sir-keir-starmer-hits-back-at-union-leader-len-mccluskey-in-antisemitism-row-7gg0chqdc|archive-date=27 April 2018|url-status=live }}{{subscription required}} but that deselection of MPs was "a matter for Labour Party members in each constituency and not a matter for me or indeed Len".{{cite news|last=Foster|first=Matt|url=https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/news/94697/chris-williamson-blasts-malcontent-labour-mps-amid|title=Chris Williamson blasts 'malcontent' Labour MPs amid bitter anti-Semitism row|work=Politics Home|date=26 April 2018|access-date=28 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180428183909/https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/news/94697/chris-williamson-blasts-malcontent-labour-mps-amid|archive-date=28 April 2018|url-status=live}} In January 2019, during a visit to Derbyshire, Jeremy Corbyn defended Williamson, saying that "Chris Williamson is a very good, very effective Labour MP. He's a very strong anti-racist campaigner. He is not anti-semitic in any way."{{cite web|title=Jeremy Corbyn defends ally Chris Williamson against anti-semitism claims|url=https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/news/101537/jeremy-corbyn-defends-ally-chris-williamson |author= Mairs, Nicholas|date=26 June 2019|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190626172218/https://www.politicshome.com/news/uk/political-parties/labour-party/news/101537/jeremy-corbyn-defends-ally-chris-williamson|access-date = 3 November 2022 |archive-date= 26 June 2019}}

In his 2022 memoir, Williamson detailed his belief that the Labour Party handled accusations of antisemitism poorly. He characterised the situation as a fake crisis. He has also stated that he would not cave under pressure from what he describes as "a coordinated smear operation by the Zionist lobby", a group in which Williamson, in the view of one reviewer, appears to include "the Community Security Trust, Board of Deputies of British Jews and Jewish Leadership Council, Campaign Against Antisemitism, BICOM and the Jewish Labour Movement".Goldberg, Marc. [https://fathomjournal.org/book-review-ten-years-hard-labour/ "Book Review."] Fathom. 16 January 2023.

In February 2019, Williamson was criticised for booking a room in the Houses of Parliament for a screening of Witch Hunt, a film about suspended party member Jackie Walker, to be hosted by Jewish Voice for Labour.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-mp-chris-williamson-party-too-apologetic-over-antisemitism-complaints|title=Corbyn set for clash with Watson over MP's antisemitism remarks|last=Mason|first=Rowena|work=The Guardian|date=27 February 2019|access-date=28 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228012452/https://amp.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-mp-chris-williamson-party-too-apologetic-over-antisemitism-complaints|archive-date=28 February 2019|url-status=live }} At the same time, a video was published by The Yorkshire Post of him telling a Momentum meeting in Sheffield that the party was being "demonised as a racist, bigoted party", partly because, in response to criticism, the party had "given too much ground (and) been too apologetic", going on to say "We've done more to address the scourge of anti-Semitism than any other political party."{{cite web | last=Bates | first=Elizabeth | title=Chris Williamson: Labour has been too apologetic about anti-Semitism | website=Yorkshire Post | date=26 February 2019 | url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/chris-williamson-labour-has-been-too-apologetic-about-anti-semitism-1-9618191 | access-date=6 March 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190303073859/https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/chris-williamson-labour-has-been-too-apologetic-about-anti-semitism-1-9618191 | archive-date=3 March 2019 | url-status=live }} Labour Deputy Leader Tom Watson said that Williamson should have the Labour whip removed for his comments and a group of 38 Labour MPs had written to the party's General Secretary to ask that he be suspended.{{cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/mp-chris-williamson-suspended-from-labour-party-amid-antisemitism-storm-a4078386.html|title=Labour MP suspended over anti-Semitism remarks|date=27 February 2019|website=Evening Standard|access-date=27 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228010127/https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/mp-chris-williamson-suspended-from-labour-party-amid-antisemitism-storm-a4078386.html|archive-date=28 February 2019|url-status=live }} There was also pressure from London mayor Sadiq Khan, GMB leader Tim Roache, anti-racism charity HOPE not hate, the Jewish Labour Movement and the Board of Deputies of British Jews.{{cite web|url=https://labourlist.org/2019/02/chris-williamson-suspended-from-the-labour-party/|title=Chris Williamson suspended from the Labour Party|date=27 February 2019|website=LabourList|access-date=27 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228010216/https://labourlist.org/2019/02/chris-williamson-suspended-from-the-labour-party/|archive-date=28 February 2019|url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-suspends-chris-williamson-over-antisemitism-remarks|title=Labour splits exposed as MP is suspended over antisemitism remarks|work=The Guardian|first1=Heather|last1=Stewart|first2=Peter|last2=Walker|date=27 February 2019|access-date=27 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227174126/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-suspends-chris-williamson-over-antisemitism-remarks|archive-date=27 February 2019|url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/mp-chris-williamson-accused-trolling-jewish-community-by-hosting-jackie-walker-film-parliament-1.480691|title=MP Chris Williamson accused of 'trolling Jewish community' by hosting Jackie Walker film in Parliament|last=Doherty|first=Rosa|date=26 February 2019|access-date=26 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227060330/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/mp-chris-williamson-accused-trolling-jewish-community-by-hosting-jackie-walker-film-parliament-1.480691|archive-date=27 February 2019|url-status=live }} Jewish Voice for Labour defended Williamson, as did the "Labour Against the Witchhunt" pressure group and the Sheffield Hallam constituency branch of the Labour Party who voted 40-to-0 in favour of a motion stating Williamson's comments had been taken out of context.{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/mar/01/local-labour-parties-drawn-into-row-over-antisemitism-claims |title=Local Labour parties drawn into row over antisemitism claims |access-date=4 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190304042847/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/mar/01/local-labour-parties-drawn-into-row-over-antisemitism-claims |archive-date=4 March 2019 |url-status=live |newspaper=The Guardian |date=March 2019 |last=Sabbagh |first=Dan}}{{cite news|url=https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/labour-suspension-of-chris-williamson-branded-madness|title=Labour suspension of Chris Williamson branded 'madness'|first=Lamiat|last=Sabin|date=27 February 2019|website=Morning Star|access-date=3 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044446/https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/labour-suspension-of-chris-williamson-branded-madness|archive-date=6 March 2019|url-status=live}} Williamson apologised for his comments saying: "I deeply regret, and apologise for, my recent choice of words when speaking about how the Labour Party has responded to the ongoing fight against antisemitism inside of our party. I was trying to stress how much the party has done to tackle anti-Semitism".{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-47385108|title=MP to be investigated in anti-Semitism row|date=27 February 2019|publisher=BBC News|access-date=27 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228133322/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-47385108|archive-date=28 February 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-mp-chris-williamson-party-too-apologetic-over-antisemitism-complaints |title=Corbyn set for clash with Watson over MP's antisemitism remarks |work=The Guardian |first1=Rowena |last1=Mason |first2=Peter |last2=Walker |first3=Jessica |last3=Elgot |date=27 February 2019 |access-date=27 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190227103438/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/feb/27/labour-mp-chris-williamson-party-too-apologetic-over-antisemitism-complaints |archive-date=27 February 2019 |url-status=live}} On 27 February 2019, he was put under formal notice of investigation, and later that day suspended from the party.

Labour readmitted Williamson on 26 June 2019 after a National Executive Committee panel considered his case and issued him with a formal warning. A party source said: "An NEC panel, advised by an independent barrister, found Chris Williamson had breached the party's rules and gave him a formal sanction. He could face further, more severe, action if he repeats any similar comments or behaviour."BBC. "Labour anti-Semitism row: Chris Williamson allowed back into party". 26 July 2019, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-48778129 {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626171709/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-48778129 |date=26 June 2019 }} A Guardian report relying on anonymous interviews with sources close to the NEC suggested that the decision for readmission was made in order to enable Williamson to enter the Labour MP reselection process then underway.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/jun/26/chris-williamson-back-in-labour-party-after-antisemitism-remarks|title=Chris Williamson back in Labour party after antisemitism remarks|last=Elgot|first=Jessica|work=The Guardian|access-date=26 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626185149/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/jun/26/chris-williamson-back-in-labour-party-after-antisemitism-remarks|archive-date=26 June 2019|url-status=live}} The decision to readmit Williamson was criticised by some Labour parliamentarians and parliamentary staffStatement on Chris Williamson, 27 June 2019:

We cannot overstate the depth and breadth of hurt and anger felt about the readmission of Chris Williamson into the Labour Party and the questions that arise about the fairness of the process.

The officer recommendation – that Mr. Williamson should be referred to the National Constitutional Committee for action – was ignored by the members of the NEC panel. That the composition of that panel was changed at short notice seems highly irregular.
Justice needs to be seen to be done and this process has not done that.
Given that the Labour Party is being investigated by the EHRC over allegations of institutional antisemitism this case is particularly important.
It is clear to us that the Labour Party's disciplinary process remains mired by the appearance of political interference. This must stop. We need a truly independent process.
We call on Jeremy Corbyn to show leadership by asking for this inappropriate, offensive and reputationally damaging decision to be overturned and reviewed.
Ultimately, it is for Jeremy Corbyn to decide whether Chris Willamson retains the Labour whip. He must remove it immediately if we are to stand any hope of persuading anyone that the Labour Party is taking antisemitism seriously.
Signed

from http://www.labouragainstthewitchhunt.org/, also see https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/tom-watson-and-labour-mps-demand-jeremy-corbyn-overturn-chris-williamson-decision_uk_5d14c696e4b0d0a2c0ad0c03 and by two British Jewish remit organisations.Mathilde Frot. "Labour MP Chris Williamson let back in with 'formal warning'. Jewish News. 26 June 2019.https://jewishnews.timesofisrael.com/labour-mp-chris-williamson-let-back-in-with-formal-warning-after-suspension Two days later, he was resuspended after the Labour Party decided to review the decision.

In August 2019, Williamson lodged legal papers with the High Court to challenge Labour's right to resuspend him.{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/aug/13/chris-williamson-sues-labour-over-his-suspension-from-party|title=Chris Williamson sues Labour over his suspension from party|last=Syal|first=Rajeev|date=13 August 2019|work=The Guardian|access-date=15 August 2019|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190815090208/https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2019/aug/13/chris-williamson-sues-labour-over-his-suspension-from-party|archive-date=15 August 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49340347|title=MP Chris Williamson sues Labour for suspension over anti-Semitism |publisher=BBC News |date=14 August 2019 |access-date=15 August 2019|language=en-GB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190815100540/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49340347|archive-date=15 August 2019|url-status=live}}

On 3 September 2019 additional allegations of misconduct were made against Williamson, resulting in a second suspension being imposed. Williamson's barrister said "It appears from the timing ... that the purpose of the decision to raise these allegations now, and to impose a second suspension on the claimant, is to seek to ensure that he will remain suspended even if this claim is successful and that he will therefore remain disqualified from selection in the forthcoming general election."{{cite news|url=https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/derby-north-mp-chris-williamsons-3314988|title=Derby North MP Chris Williamson's legal fight is heard in the High Court|last=Hawley|first=Zena |agency=Press Association |newspaper=Derby Telegraph |date=13 September 2019|access-date=10 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190927020550/https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/derby-north-mp-chris-williamsons-3314988|archive-date=27 September 2019|url-status=live}}

On 10 October 2019, the High Court ruled that reopening the first suspension had been unfair and unlawful, but upheld the legality of the second suspension on 3 September on new allegations, saying it was not inherently unfair and the "new disciplinary case must run its course".{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-50002636 |title=MP Chris Williamson loses anti-Semitism suspension appeal |publisher=BBC News |date=10 October 2019 |access-date=18 January 2021}}{{cite web |url=https://482pe539799u3ynseg2hl1r3-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Williamson-MP-v-Formby-2019-EWHC-2639-QB.pdf |title=Between: Christopher Williamson M.P. -and- Jennie Formby (sued as a representative of all members of the Labour Party except the Claimant) |author=Mr Justice Pepperall |publisher=High Court of Justice |id=[2019] EWHC 2639 (QB) |date=10 October 2019 |access-date=18 January 2021 |archive-date=31 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331212336/https://482pe539799u3ynseg2hl1r3-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Williamson-MP-v-Formby-2019-EWHC-2639-QB.pdf |url-status=dead }} Williamson recovered his legal costs.

In July 2019, the Labour Party in Northern Ireland (LPNI) released a statement opposing the resuspension of Williamson on the grounds that it was "arbitrary and unreasonable" and "the Labour Party does not have any form of particular problem with anti-semitism".{{cite web|title=Statement on Chris Williamson MP, and on the allegation that the Labour Party is anti-semitic.|url=https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yXdpUPy67TmkfkURHkJicaIKE02jeS3j/view|publisher=Labour Party in Northern Ireland|access-date=5 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190705224721/https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yXdpUPy67TmkfkURHkJicaIKE02jeS3j/view|archive-date=5 July 2019|url-status=live}} In the same month, in a survey of LabourList readers with over 10,000 responses, over two thirds of those expressing a view supported Williamson's readmission.{{cite news|url=https://labourlist.org/2019/07/readmit-williamson-and-adopt-an-independent-complaints-process-say-labourlist-readers/|title=Readmit Williamson and adopt an independent complaints process, say LabourList readers|last=Rodgers|first=Sienna|date=2 July 2019|access-date=5 July 2019|work=LabourList|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703140455/https://labourlist.org/2019/07/readmit-williamson-and-adopt-an-independent-complaints-process-say-labourlist-readers/|archive-date=3 July 2019|url-status=live}} The linguist and activist Noam Chomsky, who is Jewish, told journalist Matt Kennard that there was "nothing even remotely antisemitic" about Williamson's comments in Sheffield, and remarked that the way accusations were being used in cases such as Williamson was "not only a disgrace, but also – to put it simply – an insult to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust."{{cite news |last1=Cowles |first1=Ben |title=Chomsky speaks out against the attacks on Chris Williamson |url=https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/chomsky-speaks-out-against-the-attacks-on-chris-williamson |access-date=25 September 2019 |work=Morning Star |publisher=The People's Press Society |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190716002915/https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/chomsky-speaks-out-against-the-attacks-on-chris-williamson |url-status=live |archive-date=16 July 2019 |date=5 July 2019}} The Campaign for Chris Williamson, established to support him, includes Israeli and British academics, film directors Mike Leigh and Ken Loach, musicians Brian Eno and Roger Waters, journalist John Pilger, actor Miriam Margolyes and comedian Alexei Sayle.{{cite news|url=https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/derby-north-mp-chris-williamsons-3314988|title=Derby North MP Chris Williamson's legal fight is heard in the High Court|last=Hawley|first=Zena|date=13 September 2019|access-date=16 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190918030434/https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/derby-north-mp-chris-williamsons-3314988|archive-date=18 September 2019|url-status=live}}{{cite web | last= Sugarman | first= Daniel | title= Chris Williamson MP is to sue Labour in bid to be re-admitted to the party | website=The Jewish Chronicle | date=14 August 2019 | url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/chris-williamson-mp-suing-labour-in-attempt-to-be-re-admitted-to-the-party-1.487407 | access-date=24 April 2020}}{{cite web | title=Assad defender backs MP Chris Williamson over antisemitism dispute | last=Courea | first=Eleni | website=The Times | date=17 August 2019 | url=https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/assad-defender-backs-mp-chris-williamson-over-antisemitism-dispute-pwv2h9lnp | access-date=24 April 2020}}

In July 2019, more than one hundred signatories, describing themselves as "all Jews", including Noam Chomsky signed a letter of support for Williamson.[https://archive.today/20190708173939/https://www.theguardian.com/news/2019/jul/08/jewish-support-for-chris-williamson 'Jewish support for Chris Williamson'], The Guardian, 8 July 2019. Quote: "We the undersigned, all Jews, are writing in support of Chris Williamson and to register our dismay at the recent letter organised by Tom Watson, and signed by parliamentary Labour party and House of Lords members, calling for his suspension" The letter was later removed from The Guardian website, after questions were raised about the listed affiliation of some individuals on the list of signatories. Hope not Hate said that the person who used the organisation's name had not been authorised to do so and the Board of Deputies of British Jews said that two of the signatories had promoted 9/11 conspiracy theories.{{cite web | author= Chris York | title= 'Misleading And Inaccurate' Letter Supporting MP Chris Williamson Removed By The Guardian | website=HuffPost | url=https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/chris-williamson-guardian-letter_uk_5d249fefe4b07e698c412ab5 | access-date=31 July 2019| date= 9 July 2019 }}{{cite web | last= Sugarman | first= Daniel | title= Board of Deputies complains to Guardian about letter from 'prominent' Jews supporting Chris Williamson | website=Jewish Chronicle | url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/board-of-deputies-complains-to-guardian-about-letter-from-prominent-jews-supporting-chris-williams-1.4862605 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209091512/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/board-of-deputies-complains-to-guardian-about-letter-from-prominent-jews-supporting-chris-williams-1.4862605 | url-status=dead | archive-date=9 December 2022 | date= 9 July 2019 | access-date=31 July 2019}}

His speaking events have been controversial. For example, Labour activists criticised his invitation to a trade union meeting in Hull{{cite news|url=https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/chris-williamson-mp-suspended-hull-3133754|title=Row erupts as suspended MP Chris Williamson in Hull to speak to trades union activists|last=Young|first=Angus|date=25 July 2019|access-date=6 August 2019|work=Hull Live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190806172416/https://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/news/hull-east-yorkshire-news/chris-williamson-mp-suspended-hull-3133754|archive-date=6 August 2019|url-status=live}} and a talk in Hebden Bridge was cancelled after fears that protests would disrupt a wedding at the same venue.{{cite news|url=https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/uk/yorkshire-town-hall-meeting-featuring-mp-chris-williamson-cancelled-over-fears-it-might-affect-wedding-at-the-same-venue-1-9912110|title=Yorkshire town hall meeting featuring MP Chris Williamson cancelled over fears it might affect wedding at the same venue|last=Greenwood|first=John|date=2 August 2019|access-date=6 August 2019|work=Yorkshire Post|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190802124112/https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/uk/yorkshire-town-hall-meeting-featuring-mp-chris-williamson-cancelled-over-fears-it-might-affect-wedding-at-the-same-venue-1-9912110|archive-date=2 August 2019|url-status=live}} In October 2019, a Methodist church in Downham Market cancelled the booking for a meeting he was due to speak at after "its understanding" of Williamson increased, having not known anything about him at the time of the booking.{{Cite web |url=https://www.lynnnews.co.uk/news/labour-party-distances-itself-from-downham-market-chris-williamson-meeting-9085834/ |title=Labour Party distances itself from Downham Market Chris Williamson meeting |date=11 October 2019 |access-date=12 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191012014448/https://www.lynnnews.co.uk/news/labour-party-distances-itself-from-downham-market-chris-williamson-meeting-9085834/ |archive-date=12 October 2019 |url-status=live }}

An event due to be hosted by Williamson at the Brighthelm Centre in Brighton was cancelled after local MP Peter Kyle contacted the venue to express his concerns over Williamson's alleged antisemitism. A second venue was also cancelled; Williamson said this was after staff were threatened in person and abused in phone calls and on their personal social media accounts.{{cite news|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/brighton-holiday-inn-cancels-chris-williamson-event-after-complaints-1.487218|title=Brighton Holiday Inn cancels event with suspended Labour MP Chris Williamson after complaints|last=Harpin|first=Lee|date=7 August 2019|access-date=7 August 2019|work=Jewish Chronicle|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807112525/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/brighton-holiday-inn-cancels-chris-williamson-event-after-complaints-1.487218|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}} The Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council called a protest against Chris Williamson speaking, with a third venue then cancelling the booking after threats of violence were received.{{cite news|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/news-features/after-dropping-chris-williamson-event-quakers-take-time-to-reflect-on-hosting-speakers-accused-of-1.487569|title=After dropping Chris Williamson event, Quakers 'take time to reflect' on hosting speakers accused of antisemitism|last=Weich|first=Ben|date=16 August 2019|access-date=18 August 2019|work=Jewish Chronicle|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190818181721/https://www.thejc.com/news/news-features/after-dropping-chris-williamson-event-quakers-take-time-to-reflect-on-hosting-speakers-accused-of-1.487569|archive-date=18 August 2019|url-status=live}}

Supporters of the MP talked of the importance of protecting freedom of speech.{{cite news|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/chris-williamson-event-brighton-labour-antisemitism-board-of-deputies-jlc-protest-1.487301|title=Quakers cancel Chris Williamson Brighton event as Jewish groups planned protest|last=Weich|first=Ben|date=8 August 2019|access-date=8 August 2019|work=Jewish Chronicle|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190808154356/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/chris-williamson-event-brighton-labour-antisemitism-board-of-deputies-jlc-protest-1.487301|archive-date=8 August 2019|url-status=live}} In response, Williamson said: "The grotesque slurs that Peter Kyle and others have levelled against me are truly despicable. I have a long and proud record of fighting racism, which has always involved standing up for every oppressed and marginalised group in society, including Jewish people. When Peter Kyle was still in nappies, I was an active member of the Anti-Nazi League, physically confronting foul racists and anti-Semites in the National Front."{{cite news|url=https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/17792339.chris-williamson-event-cancelled-venue-mp-39-s-intervention|work=The Argus|title=Chris Williamson event CANCELLED by venue after MP's intervention|date=24 July 2019|access-date=24 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190724165131/https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/17792339.chris-williamson-event-cancelled-venue-mp-39-s-intervention/|archive-date=24 July 2019|url-status=live}}{{better source needed|date=July 2019}} In October 2019, the Union of Jewish Students and the Nottingham Jewish Society demanded that the University of Nottingham cancel a planned lecture by Williamson.{{cite news|url=https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/jewish-students-call-for-nottingham-university-to-cancel-chris-williamson-invitation-1.489683|title=Jewish students call for the University of Nottingham to cancel Chris Williamson invitation|last=Sugarman|first=Daniel|date=4 October 2019|access-date=4 October 2019|work=The Jewish Chronicle|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191005141505/https://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/jewish-students-call-for-nottingham-university-to-cancel-chris-williamson-invitation-1.489683|archive-date=5 October 2019|url-status=live}} The demand was supported by the Jewish Labour Movement and the Board of Deputies of British Jews. The university said "While the university is committed to supporting the well-being of all students within our community, we also have a legal duty to ensure that lawful free speech should not be prevented on campus."{{cite news|url=https://jewishnews.timesofisrael.com/jewish-groups-furious-after-mp-chris-williamson-invited-to-deliver-lecture/|title=University of Nottingham defends invitation to Chris Williamson despite concern|last=Frot|first=Mathilde|date=4 October 2019|access-date=4 October 2019|work=Jewish News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191007193714/https://jewishnews.timesofisrael.com/jewish-groups-furious-after-mp-chris-williamson-invited-to-deliver-lecture/|archive-date=7 October 2019|url-status=live}}

Williamson was prevented from standing as the Labour candidate in his Derby North constituency at the 2019 general election as a result of his active suspension. He resigned from the Labour Party and stood instead as an independent candidate. He received 635 votes, losing his deposit and coming bottom of the poll.{{cite web |title=General election 2019: Dennis Skinner voted out in Bolsover |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/election-2019-50773251 |publisher=BBC News |date=13 December 2019 |access-date=23 March 2023}}{{cite web |title=Count Binface and Lord Buckethead among high-profile deposit losers |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/uk/count-binface-and-lord-buckethead-among-high-profile-deposit-losers/38782240.html |website=BelfastTelegraph.co.uk |date=13 December 2019 |access-date=23 March 2023}}

Following his resignation from the Labour Party in 2019, Williamson initiated the Resistance Movement, also known as Resist, with the stated aim of fighting for change and social justice for all.{{cite web |last=Breen |first=Suzanne |title=Dissident slant of Palestinian facing charges in MI5 sting 'no surprise' to ex-MP |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/dissident-slant-of-palestinian-facing-charges-in-mi5-sting-no-surprise-to-ex-mp-39504508.html |website=belfasttelegraph |date=4 September 2020 |access-date=9 November 2020}}[https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/-chris-williamson-meets-socialist-labour-party-discuss-working-class-solidarity Chris Williamson meets with Socialist Labour Party to discuss working class solidarity], Morning Star{{cite news| website=thejc.com | url=https://www.thejc.com/news/politics/jvl-co-founder-naomi-wimborne-idrissi-expelled-from-labour-party-11ObhCRzQcVqD7sATOWAFl | access-date=24 May 2023|title=JVL co-founder Naomi Wimborne-Idrissi expelled from Labour Party|author=Ben Bloch}} An international conference, titled The Resist Festival and intending to feature Lowkey, Noam Chomsky, Max Blumenthal and speakers from the French Yellow vests movement, was planned for June 2020 but postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite web |title=Disgraced former MP Chris Williamson to launch new 'grassroots movement' with inaugural 'resist festival' featuring Lowkey and Noam Chomsky |url=https://antisemitism.uk/disgraced-former-mp-chris-williamson-to-launch-new-grassroots-movement-with-inaugural-resist-festival-featuring-lowkey-and-noam-chomsky/ |website=Campaign Against Antisemitism|date=24 April 2020 }} The Resistance Movement also has a YouTube channel, Resistance TV.{{cite web | title=CAA reveals former Labour member Prof. David Miller is behind Chris Williamson's "Resistance" movement and thinks Jewish interfaith is Israeli-backed "Trojan Horse" effort to "normalise Zionism in the Muslim community" | website=Campaign Against Antisemitism | date=2020-06-23 | url=https://antisemitism.org/caa-reveals-former-labour-member-prof-david-miller-is-behind-chris-williamsons-resistance-movement-and-thinks-jewish-interfaith-is-israeli-backed-trojan-horse/ | access-date=2020-11-09}} Resist was proscribed by the Labour Party in July 2021.{{cite web | last1=Chappell | first1=Elliot | last2=Neame | first2=Katie | title=Labour NEC member suspended for speaking at proscribed group's event – LabourList | website=LabourList | date=11 June 2020 | url=https://labourlist.org/2022/09/labour-nec-member-suspended-for-speaking-at-proscribed-groups-event/ | access-date=23 March 2023}}

In October 2020, the Equalities and Human Rights Commission report into antisemitism in the Labour Party did not find that Williamson had contributed to the "unlawful harassment related to Jewish ethnicity" in the Labour Party, which Williamson declared as vindication.{{cite web |title=Corbynites react to the EHRC report |date=29 October 2020 |url=https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/corbynites-react-to-the-ehrc-report |publisher=The Spectator |access-date=30 October 2020}}

In November 2020, in response to Jeremy Corbyn's suspension from the Labour Party, Williamson announced that he was in discussions with "key labour movement officials and existing left-wing parties" about the possibility of creating a new socialist party.{{cite news |url=https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/former-derby-north-mp-chris-4693726 |title=Former Derby North MP Chris Williamson says Labour is dead and plans new socialist party |last=Hawley |first=Zena |website=Derby Telegraph |date=12 November 2020 |access-date=18 January 2021}} A press release announced that Williamson had joined the Steering Committee of the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC) as an observer member.{{cite web |title=Ex-MP Chris Williamson joins TUSC to challenge 'resurgent Blairism' |date=12 November 2020 |url=https://www.socialistparty.org.uk/articles/31633/12-11-2020/ex-mp-chris-williamson-joins-tusc |publisher=Socialist Party |access-date=12 November 2020}}

On 2 August 2022, the Electoral Commission registered a new party called System Change, with Williamson as the leader.{{cite web |title=View registration – The Electoral Commission |url=http://search.electoralcommission.org.uk/English/Registrations/PP14085 |access-date=9 August 2022 |website=search.electoralcommission.org.uk}}{{primary source inline|date=January 2023}}

In July 2023, Williamson joined the Workers Party of Britain.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-13 |title=Chris Williamson joins Workers Party |url=https://workerspartybritain.org/2023/07/13/chris-williamson-joins-workers-party/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=Workers Party of Britain |language=en-GB}} The party has defended Williamson over his suspension from the Labour Party for his comments about antisemitism.{{cite web |last=Spereall |first=David |date=26 April 2021 |title=Wakefield local elections 2021: George Galloway's Workers Party of Britain stands in the district for the first time |url=https://www.wakefieldexpress.co.uk/news/politics/wakefield-local-elections-2021-george-galloways-workers-party-of-britain-stands-in-the-district-for-the-first-time-3213737 |work=Wakefield Express |accessdate=15 May 2021 |archive-date=15 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515112819/https://www.wakefieldexpress.co.uk/news/politics/wakefield-local-elections-2021-george-galloways-workers-party-of-britain-stands-in-the-district-for-the-first-time-3213737 |url-status=live }}

At the party's Congress in December 2023, when George Galloway was re-elected party leader. Williamson was among three deputy leaders elected.{{cite web |url=https://workerspartybritain.org/2023/12/02/new-leadership-elected-at-workers-party-congress/ |title=New leadership elected at Workers Party congress |website=Workers Party of Britain |date=2 December 2023 |access-date=13 December 2023}}

Williamson currently hosts the television programme Palestine Declassified on the Iranian government-owned TV channel PressTV.{{cite news |last=Frazer |first=Jenni |title=Vehement anti-Zionists designated as 'Iran state-affiliated media' by Twitter |url=https://www.jewishnews.co.uk/vehement-anti-zionists-designated-as-iran-state-affiliated-media-by-twitter/ |access-date=29 June 2022 |publisher=Jewish News |date=27 June 2022}}

On 19 October 2023, Derbyshire Police said they had received "multiple reports" about a post by Williamson on X and were considering whether the post was a hate crime. Williamson's post stated "Israel has forfeited any right to exist".{{cite web|first=George|last=Torr|date=20 October 2023|title=Chris Williamson: Former MP's Israel comment prompts hate crime probe|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-67161730|website=BBC News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231020011409/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-derbyshire-67161730|archive-date=20 October 2023|url-status=live}} In an interview on 8 November, Williamson said in some respects Israel's actions against Gaza are worse than Nazi Germany.{{cite web|first=Danielle|last=Greyman-Kennard|author-link=|date=8 November 2023|title=Israel 'worse than Nazis,' Gaza is a concentration camp – former UK MP|url=https://www.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-772301|website=The Jerusalem Post|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108201154/https://www.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-772301|archive-date=8 November 2023|url-status=live}} On 18 January 2024, Williamson publicly stated that "Israel must be destroyed."{{Cite web |date=18 January 2024 |title=Chris Williamson post on Twitter/X |url=https://twitter.com/DerbyChrisW/status/1748108626185670877 }}

Williamson stood in the Derby South constituency as the Workers Party candidate at the 2024 general election.{{Cite news |title=Chris Williamson: Former Derby MP confirms election bid |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-derbyshire-68581737 |access-date=2024-03-15 |website=BBC News |date=15 March 2024 |language=en}} He finished third with 5,205 votes (behind Labour's Baggy Shanker, another former council leader (14,503) and Reform UK (8,501) and beating the Conservatives (5,192) into fourth place by 12 votes.{{cite web | last=Slater | first=Nigel | title=Derby South General Election results as ex-council leader wins seat | website=Derbyshire Live | date=5 July 2024 | url=https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/news/derby-news/derby-south-general-election-results-9387274 | access-date=13 July 2024}}

Williamson is teetotal and has been a vegan since 1976.{{cite web |title=MP Urges Constituents To Try Veganism |url=https://plantbasednews.org/culture/mp-urges-constituents-try-veganism/ |website=Plant Based News |access-date=4 July 2021 |date=16 October 2017 |last1=News |first1=Plant Based }} He has a son and a daughter, Fionnbharr and Simone, from an early relationship. He is a member of the League Against Cruel SportsKerry McCarthy MP [https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111101/debtext/111101-0004.htm full transcript (column 898)] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901202753/https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111101/debtext/111101-0004.htm |date=1 September 2017}}, World Vegan Day, Adjournment Debate, House of Commons, 1 November 2011. and was its National Chair in 1992.{{Cite book |last=Benn |first=Tony |title=Free At Last!: Diaries 1991–2001 |publisher=Arrow Books |year=2003 |editor-last=Winstone |editor-first=Ruth |edition=1st |location=London |pages=83 |language=en}} He is a republican.{{cite web |date=18 May 2018 |title=Goodbye to the monarchy? |url=https://newint.org/features/web-exclusive/2018/05/18/goodbye-monarchy |access-date=14 September 2022 |website=New Internationalist}}

At the time of the 2010 election, he was vice-chair of the Local Government Anti Poverty Forum.{{cite web|title=Chris Williamson – Parliamentary candidates|url=http://ukpolitics.telegraph.co.uk/Derby+North/Chris+Williamson|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306092325/http://ukpolitics.telegraph.co.uk/Derby%2BNorth/Chris%2BWilliamson|archive-date=6 March 2012|access-date=19 October 2012|work=The Daily Telegraph}}

{{reflist|30em}}

{{Commons category}}

{{Wikiquote}}

• {{UK MP links |parliament=chris-williamson/3976 |publicwhip=Chris_Williamson |theywork=chris_williamson}}

{{s-start}}

{{s-par|uk}}

{{s-bef|before=Bob Laxton}}

{{s-ttl

| title = Member of Parliament for Derby North

| years = 2010–2015

}}

{{s-aft | after = Amanda Solloway }}

{{s-bef|before=Amanda Solloway}}

{{s-ttl|title=Member of Parliament for Derby North|years=2017–2019}}

{{s-aft|after=Amanda Solloway}}

{{s-end}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Williamson, Chris}}

Category:1956 births

Category:Living people

Category:Alumni of Leicester Polytechnic

Category: Anti-hunting activists

Category:British anti-Zionists

Category:Councillors in Derby

Category:English anti-war activists

Category:English republicans

Category:English social workers

Category:English socialists

Category:Labour Party (UK) councillors

Category:Labour Party (UK) MPs for English constituencies

Category:Leaders of local authorities of England

Category:Members of the Parliament of the United Kingdom for constituencies in Derbyshire

Category:People from Normanton, Derby

Category:Press TV people

Category:UK MPs 2010–2015

Category:UK MPs 2017–2019

Category:Workers Party of Britain parliamentary candidates