A prominent Labour councillor has spoken out about seven high profile resignations over the party's stance on anti-Semitism and Brexit.

Chuka Umunna, Luciana Berger, Chris Leslie, Angela Smith, Mike Gapes, Gavin Shuker and Ann Coffey resigned from the labour party this morning (February 18).

Ms Berger, the Member of Parliament for Liverpool Wavertree, said Labour had become institutionally anti-Semitic and she was "embarrassed and ashamed" to stay.

Mr Umunna, Member of Parliament for Streatham, said they had "taken the first step" and urged other Labour MPs - and members of other parties - to join them in "building a new politics" as the Independent Group in Parliament.

Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn said: "I am disappointed that these MPs have felt unable to continue to work together for the Labour policies that inspired millions at the last election and saw us increase our vote by the largest share since 1945.

"Labour won people over on a programme for the many not the few - redistributing wealth and power, taking vital resources into public ownership, investing in every region and nation, and tackling climate change.

"The Conservative government is bungling Brexit, while Labour has set out a unifying and credible plan."

Hertsmere Labour leader Jeremy Newmark said he was receptive to the concerns raised but believes local politics and national politics should remain separate.

“I’m sensitive to all the concerns raised, but I think right now given the political turmoil of politics in this country labour represents the only viable alternative to cuts and austerity.

“I don’t think national politics should take away local issues especially in Hertsmere with elections coming up in May.

“I have spoken out about how the party can do more to tackle anti-Semitism, but my focus is what is going on in Hertsmere as local party leader and councillor."