The leader of the Respect Party - which was founded in Tower Hamlets in 2004 - has stood down, plunging its future into doubt.

Salma Yaqoob released a statement announcing her decision on the party’s website on Tuesday,

She wrote: “It is with deep regret that I have decided to resign from Respect. The last few weeks have been extremely difficult for everyone in the party. I feel necessary relations of trust and collaborative working have unfortunately broken down.”

Cllr Oliur Rahman, who was the first elected representaive of the party and is now a member of Tower Hamlets council’s cabinet, used Twitter to congratulate Ms Yaqoob on her decision.

He wrote: “Respect you for doing the right thing sister. One door close better one opens. End of Respect?”