Jonathan Ashworth calls on new Leicester South MP to explain 'dealings' with man charged with terror offences
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, who won the seat of Leicester South in last week's general election, ousting Labour's then shadow paymaster general Jonathan Ashworth from the constituency by 979 votes.
Follow live: The latest politics news
Novsarka has posted numerous messages in support of the new MP, including saying "the best man won" after the vote.
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".
Read more:
How parliament has prepared 300 rookie MPs for job
Eight unexpected moments from the election
Who is your local MP now? Find out here
'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."
Sky News has contacted Mr Adam for a response.
