A LABOUR councillor has accused Jim Sheridan of showing a lack of “remorse or contrition” over alleged anti-Semitic remarks, following the veteran politician’s reinstatement to the party.

Councillor Sheridan confirmed his suspension from the party had been lifted on Friday after an investigation into comments made online in August.

The former MP had posted on Facebook: “For all my adult life I have had the utmost respect and empathy for the Jewish community and their historic suffering.

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“No longer due to what they and their Blairite plotters are doing to my party and the long-suffering people of Britain who need a radical Labour government.”

Reports of a split on Renfrewshire Council’s Labour group have now emerged, with five of the party’s councillors understood to be disappointed by how the investigation has been handled.

Paisley Southwest Councillor Kevin Montgomery said: “I don’t think the investigation has been fit for purpose and I don’t think Jim’s response has shown remorse or contrition.”

In a statement issued on Friday, Councillor Sheridan said his accusers were “misguided” and had “overreacted”.

He said: “I was notified that my suspension from the Labour Party has been lifted with no further action to be taken by the party.

“Whilst I am delighted with this decision I remain of the view that my accusers were misguided and overreacted to what was intended to highlight my personal frustration and criticism of those intent on undermining our leadership in Scotland and the UK.

“I would also like to reiterate my sincere apologies to the Jewish community whose historic struggle I have supported all my political life.

“I am extremely humbled by the level of support from across the political spectrum I have received, and from fellow members and supporters of the party whose views and values I respect.

“Throughout this unfortunate distraction I have maintained my total commitment to my constituents and and will continue to do so.

“Likewise my complete support  for the Labour Party and our leaderships at every level continues, and reinforces my determination to return labour administrations at local, devolved and national level for the many not the few.”

Responding to comments made by Councillor Montgomery, Councillor Sheridan said: “It’s entirely up to him and if he’s got a problem he can take it through the Labour Party.”

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The Labour Party has said complaints of anti-Semitism are “fully investigated” in line with its “rules and procedures”.

A spokesman said: “The Labour Party takes all complaints of anti-Semitism extremely seriously and we are committed to challenging and campaigning against it in all its forms.

“All complaints about anti-Semitism are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken.”