The British Labour Party has fully adopted a new definition of anti-Semitism in full after a crunch vote by its ruling body – however, it has also added its own "free-speech clause."

The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) backed a change in its code of conduct after a tense three-hour meeting.

A party spokesperson said: "The NEC has today adopted all of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) examples of anti-Semitism, in addition to the IHRA definition which Labour adopted in 2016, alongside a statement which ensures this will not in any way undermine freedom of expression on Israel or the rights of Palestinians.”

The spokesperson said party leader Jeremy Corbyn had made a statement to the meeting describing action taken against anti-Semitism, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community and the importance of protecting Palestinian rights.

The statement was welcomed by the NEC as an “important contribution to the consultation,” however the body reportedly refused to endorse it and it had to be withdrawn.

Activists outside a meeting of the British Labour Party National Executive Committee in London, 04-09-2018. Image:  Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire/PA Images

Rival groups of protestors gathered outside the party’s London headquarters ahead of the meeting.

Demonstrators holding signs reading “It’s the Palestinians who are suffering” voiced their concern that the move will block legitimate criticism of the actions of Israel.

Meanwhile, groups draped in the Israeli flag carried signs that read “what offends Jews is our business – not yours!”

The announcement marks an important moment in the row that has dominated Labour all summer.

The disagreement has seen MPs pitted against each other and seen serious allegations levelled at Mr Corbyn.

Activists outside a meeting of the British Labour Party National Executive Committee in London, 04-09-2018. Image:  Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire/PA Images

The party had already adopted the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism in full – however it attempted to make amendments to some of its examples.

However, critics warned that changed definitions were not as strong as the IHRA examples.

This evening, the NEC agreed to adopt the IHRA definition and examples unedited and in full - but added the additional statement protecting freedom of expression.

With reporting from IRN ...