Jewish MP Ivan Lewis has been suspended by the Labour party after allegations of sexual harassment were made against him.

The announcement came a week after it was reported that the Mr Lewis, who represents Bury South, was under investigation by the party, with the Buzzfeed News media site reporting that a number of women had alleged harassment by the former minister.

In a statement from Mr Lewis, he said “I am deeply saddened to hear of my suspension pending investigation. I strongly dispute the allegations and intend to co-operate fully with the Labour Party’s investigation.”

A spokesperson for the Labour Party said: “The Labour Party takes all allegations of sexual harassment extremely seriously. Ivan Lewis is currently suspended from the Labour Party pending an investigation.”