Protesters gathered outside an east London Labour Party office last night following a House of Commons vote on a ceasefire in Gaza.

People gathered in numbers outside the Tower Hamlets Labour office in Bethnal Green yesterday, November 16, with some waving Palestinian flags.

It comes after Rushanara Ali, Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Bow, failed to vote on the matter in line with the Labour leadership's stance.

But many London Labour MPs, including Apsana Begum who represents Poplar and Limehouse, defied this to vote in favour of a motion calling for a ceasefire.

Protesters were heard singing "Shame on you Rushanara Ali" and quoting the "river to the sea" chant. 

People were seen holding picket signs showing support for Palestine, and one woman was seen holding a handmade sign, reading "Not my MP". 

East London Advertiser: Men, women and children were all in the turnout for the protest. Men, women and children were all in the turnout for the protest. (Image: Philippa Cave)

Ms Ali released a statement on her X account on November 15, stating her reasons for failing to vote. 

She wrote she has "long supported a ceasefire" but abstained from voting for the Scottish National Party's motion.

East London Advertiser: Rushanara Ali MPRushanara Ali MP (Image: Mike Brooke)

"I have never considered my role on the Labour front bench to be above my commitment to my constituents and my principles - and that is why I refused to join the Shadow Government many times. 

"I want to ensure that my position is used to ensure the utmost impact to help alleviate this devastating situation.

"The reality is that this motion does not secure a ceasefire and would not lead towards one, which the people of Gaza urgently and desperately need.

"This SNP motion does not stand a chance of securing a ceasefire; and I will not relent in my obligation to be a loud voice within the Shadow Government, simply in exchange for a symbolic measure, important as it is, when my conscience dictates I do much more right now."

Officers from the Met Police were at the protest. 

A spokesperson for the Met said: "A protest took place in the vicinity of Cambridge Heath Road, Tower Hamlets on Thursday, 16 November.

"An appropriate policing plan was in place."

They have confirmed no arrests were made.