East Lothian Labour party has passed motions urging the party to campaign energetically for a public vote and to Remain in the EU and also do more to tackle anti-Semitism within its ranks.

The motion on Brexit also supported revoking Article 50 if necessary to prevent a No Deal Brexit in October. It will now go forward to the party’s UK conference in Brighton in September.

The anti-Semitism motion included a call to recognise the Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) as the long-standing representative of Jews in the Labour Party, to affiliate to the JLM and organise its anti-Semitism training locally.

Speaking after the meeting, Martin Whitfield MP said:

“I’m very pleased that my local party has agreed these two motions. Scottish Labour now has an unequivocal position on supporting a public vote and Remain but this must be replicated across the UK in the interests of the communities we represent.

“On anti-Semitism, it is vital that local parties and members demonstrate solidarity with Jewish colleagues at what has undoubtedly been a very difficult and worrying period for many.

“This motion confirms East Lothian Labour’s commitment to playing its full part in supporting the Jewish community and helping ensure we root out anti-Semitism in the party and wider society.”

Colin Yorkston, Chair of East Lothian CLP, added:

“The members present arrived at a clear view on both these motions and I am confident they reflect the views of the majority of local Labour members and supporters.

“They reiterate our historic commitment to opposing all forms of racism, including anti-Semitism, and to our internationalist principles and the importance of working together with our European neighbours.”