An investigation has been launched into alleged comments made by a Conservative Party donor about former Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott.

West Yorkshire Police are investigating alleged racist comments made by Tory party donor Frank Hester at a meeting in 2019.

The force said the investigation had been passed over from the Metropolitan Police as the meeting took place in Horsforth, Leeds.

They added that the Metropolitan Police had been contacted on March 11 about a report in The Guardian.

Abbott is the longest-serving black MPPA

In remarks first reported by The Guardian, Hester said the Hackney MP made him "want to hate all black women... I don't hate all black women at all, but I think she should be shot."

A spokesperson from West Yorkshire Police said: "This is the first time the comments had been brought to the attention of police.Our officers have since been working to establish the facts and to ultimately ascertain whether a crime has been committed.

"We recognise the strong reaction to these allegations and appreciate everyone who has contacted us since the article was published.

"As we continue our inquiry, we are keen to hear from anyone who could directly assist our investigation."

Hester allegedly said seeing Abbott on TV made him "just want to hate all black women"PA

The alleged remarks were said to have been made during a meeting at Hester's company, the Phoenix Partnership (TPP) in Leeds in 2019.