AN Independent candidate hoping to be elected MP for Bradford West last night stood by her controversial campaign leaflets that declare that a 'vote for her is a vote for Corbyn' alongside a picture of her and the Labour leader.

The Labour Party's governance and legal unit has written to Salma Yaqoob to accuse her of using “demonstrably false” information to try to secure votes.

But Ms Yaqoob, a former Respect Party leader, has countered by saying Labour is making “malicious accusations” against her.

In a letter of reply to Labour, she wrote: “On your concern with the leaflet’s claim “A vote for Salma is a vote for Corbyn,” I stand by this political point.

“A vote for me does not undermine or weaken support for Jeremy Corbyn. For almost two decades, I have consistently campaigned on policy issues, which also reflect the principles of the Labour leader.

“On these issues and principles, a vote for me would mean that the people of Bradford West are given the chance to right the wrongs under Naz Shah, who has neglected constituents in favour of her own political ambitions.

“On your other concern regarding my photo with Jeremy Corbyn, this is not in any way implying an endorsement by him.

"Rather, it accurately reflects how we have campaigned alongside each other for many years, including anti-war rallies over 15 years, austerity and student fees protests, and in campaigns to protect our precious public services.

“At no point in the leaflet do I make the claim of an endorsement from Jeremy Corbyn or the Labour Party. This is a malicious accusation made in your letter and in Naz Shah’s petty political game designed to discredit my campaign. I would appreciate if we focus our energies on the issues that matter, which is reversing years of neglect for the people of Bradford West.”

In response to Ms Yaqoob’s comments, a Labour Party spokesman highlighted Mr Corbyn’s support of Ms Shah and for the “fantastic principles and knowledge that she brings to represent the people of Bradford”.

He added: “Jeremy Corbyn couldn’t be clearer who he’s supporting in Bradford West – if you want to see a Labour government for the many not the few, you should vote for Labour’s Naz Shah.”

Also standing in Bradford West in next week’s election are George Grant for the Conservatives, Alun Griffiths for the Liberal Democrats, Celia Hickson for the Green Party, and Derrick Hodgson for UKIP.