Anneliese Dodds MP, Labour’s Shadow Women and Equalities Secretary, commenting on Nusrat Ghani’s statement in response to Downing Street’s own statement, said:

“It is shameful that instead of treating allegations of Islamophobia with the seriousness they deserve, the Conservatives have spent the day doubling down and refusing to take action.

“For a Conservative MP, Michael Fabricant, to go on the radio and make comments that reflect exactly the sort of unacceptable behaviour Nusrat has raised shows just how deep the problem in the Conservative party goes.

“No one should question Nusrat Ghani’s right to be heard as a Muslim woman and no one should ever face discrimination at work for their religion.

“Boris Johnson and the Conservatives’ response has been plain offensive. There needs to be an immediate, independent investigation into these serious allegations.”