Police are investigating an incident after flames were seen and graffiti was daubed on the constituency office of Labour MP Sharon Hodgson.
The fire and graffiti were reported at the MP for Washington and Gateshead South's office in Concord, Washington, with the words "328 days blood on your hands" scrawled on the building, police and witnesses said. A significant police and fire brigade presence remained at the scene as inquiries continued.
John Foster, a member of Eagle Archery, which uses premises adjoining the MP's office, said he arrived on the morning after the incident to find the entrance blocked by police cars and tape. "The building looks a bit of a mess. If this has been done deliberately then it's shocking behaviour but people think they can get away with it," he said.
A local resident said other nearby businesses appeared to have been affected and added: "There are surely more democratic ways to protest about things. Other businesses look like they have also been affected. It's difficult enough for local businesses at the moment without this."
A spokesperson for Ms. Hodgson said an incident had occurred overnight and that the office would not be commenting while the police investigation was under way. The spokesperson added: "We will not be commenting or speculating while there is an ongoing police investigation, what we are clear on is there is no place for this kind of violence in our society. Sharon will not be deterred and will continue to support her constituents in Washington and Gateshead South as she does day in, day out. Constituents should get in touch with their issues by emailing in the usual way."
Ms. Hodgson is vice-chair of Labour Friends of Israel and has been publicly vocal about anti-Semitism. Police have not released further details about the cause of the fire, whether anyone was injured or whether any arrests have been made. The force said inquiries were ongoing.
Investigators at the scene were assessing the extent of the damage and collecting evidence. Authorities asked anyone with information or relevant footage to contact the police to assist the inquiry.