John McDonnell makes light of Laura Kuenssberg's bodyguard as he vows to 'sort out' abusive activists

 John McDonnell has suggested he will "sort" Jeremy Corbyn supporters who abuse Laura Kuenssberg amid reports she has been allocated bodyguards to protect her at Labour conference. 

The BBC's political editor has been the target of sexist abuse online and in person following accusations that she is bias against the left-wing Labour leader.

Mr McDonnell, the shadow chancellor, said the abuse was "unacceptable" and that abusive activists would be "disciplined".

However, he was accused of making light of the issue after suggesting that Ms Kuenssberg should to tell anyone who harassed her that "John McDonnell will sort them'". 

Speaking to LBC radio, he said: "Any intimidation against any journalist is unacceptable.

"I said to Laura that if there's anyone in the Labour party trying that on, let us know and they will be out this Labour party as fast as they can think. 

"I'll tell you that I will protect journalists because that is what I've done throughout my life, in this country and abroad.

"I've said to Laura today, if you identify people, they will be disciplined by this party... John McDonnell will sort them."

A magazine full of cartoons on sale at the conference portrayed Ms Kuenssberg as a cheerleader for Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May, demonstrating the depth of feeling against her among Mr Corbyn's backers who feel she has been unfair to him.

It is not the first time she has been given a bodyguard for her own protection after reports emerged claiming a similar precaution was taken during the general election. 

The Sun on Sunday reported that Ms Kuenssberg will be accompanied both inside and outside the venue, which is protected by a secure zone where delegates must have a pass to gain access. 

A source told the paper: "We take the safety of our staff extremely seriously. Laura is a well-known public figure.

"She and her team will be covering events with big crowds where there can be hostility, so we want to ensure adequate precautions are taken.”

The BBC said it does not comment on security issues.