Jonathan Ashworth calls on new Leicester South MP to explain 'dealings' with man charged with terror offences
Majid Novsarka - also known as Majid Freeman and facing allegations of encouragement of terrorism and supporting a proscribed organisation - has been a vocal supporter of new MP Shockat Adam, who ousted Labour's former shadow paymaster general in last week's election.
Wednesday 10 July 2024 16:26, UK
A former senior Labour MP has called on the man who took his seat to "provide a full account of all his dealings" with one of his vocal supporters who is now facing terrorism charges.
Leicestershire Police confirmed on Wednesday that Majid Novsarka - known as Majid Freeman - was facing allegations of encouragement of terrorism and supporting a proscribed organisation, and will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court later this month.
Novsarka, who is from Leicester, was a staunch advocate for Shockat Adam, in last week's general election, ousting Labour's then shadow paymaster general Jonathan Ashworth from the constituency by 979 votes.
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Novsarka has posted numerous messages in support of the new MP, including saying "the best man won" after the vote.
There is no suggestion of a direct relationship between the two.
New MP Adam tweeted video of Novsarka
Meanwhile, Mr Adam tweeted a video of Novsarka questioning Mr Ashworth on the campaign trail over his position on the war in Gaza, writing: "Politics is all about answering difficult questions - if you can't stand the heat..."
Speaking to Sky News, Mr Ashworth said his successor had "serious questions to answer about his association with this individual".
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'Decent people will expect new MP to provide account'
Mr Ashworth added: "The safety of the people of Leicester must always come first.
"Decent minded people across Leicester will expect their new MP to publicly and without equivocation provide a full account of all his dealings with this individual in the campaign."
A spokesman for Mr Adam said: "Shockat was elected by a diverse coalition of voters in Leicester South. He is focussed on delivering for his constituents, and will not be distracted by sour grapes from a beaten rival whose divisive politics were resoundingly rejected at the ballot box."