Organisers have denied claims that a meeting to discuss anti-Semitism was in any way “hostile”.

Redbridge Momentum organised a meeting on October 4 entitled ‘Labour, Britain’s Jews and Antisemitism — A Different Perspective,’ at Redbridge Central Library.

Police were present outside the meeting, but reported no incidents on the night.

Jonathan Hoffman, a former vice chairman of the UK Zionist Federation and a campaigner against anti-Semitism, protested outside the meeting, joined by former Redbridge Mayor Ashley Kissin.

He claimed he and 13 other Jewish people were refused entry and criticised the council for allowing the meeting to go ahead on its property.

But co-organisers Jewish Voice for Labour denied claims of refusing entry.

Naomi Wimborne-Idrissi, who is also Jewish and chaired the meeting, said: “No one was denied entry unless the organisers had evidence that they were hostile to the purpose of the meeting, which was to explore different Jewish opinions about anti-Semitism and racism in general.

“The police we had to call were to assure our safety and the library staff who cared for us can testify to the fact that we were peaceful.”

The Metropolitan Police confirmed there were no incidents reported either inside or outside Redbridge Central Library on the night of the meeting.

Vaseem Ahmed, 50, a Muslim who lives in Redbridge attended the meeting because he has always been interested in Palestine and its history.

He said: “I was keen to hear that other perspective and the more people who come together regardless of faith and background, the more justice.”

As a Muslim, Mr Ahmed described how those of his faith have been grouped as a “monolith” and how frustrating that is.

He added: “It was right that people felt it was time to speak out, people are individuals, we’re not all the same and people should be free to speak and not have to cower away for their views.”

A spokesman for Redbridge Council said: “This was a private meeting and it was for the organisers to decide who they invited and admitted.

“We provide space in our libraries for people to exercise their right to free speech within the boundaries of the law.

“The police were contacted to ascertain if they have concerns and they did not object to it going ahead.”