Simon Johnson, the chief executive of the Jewish Leadership Council called today for an apology from Sir Gerald Kaufman for disgraceful remarks made at a meeting of the Palestine Return Centre.

“For the Father of the House to make comments that refer to all the old-fashioned anti-Semitic tropes is nothing short of disgraceful,” he said. “I am personally offended that an MP representing the city where I was born should articulate such views as this. Sir Gerald owes the Jewish community a significant apology.”

Asked whether the Commons or the Labour Party should take action against Kaufman, Johnson said: “He holds the title ‘Father of the House,’ therefore this should be a matter for the whole House.”