Stirling MP Anne McGuire is to be the new chair of Labour Friends of Israel.

Mrs McGuire, the Shadow Minister for Disabled People, is a former parliamentary private secretary to party leader Ed Miliband.

She has taken part in several LFI trips to Israel and has regularly raised the Middle East peace process in the Commons.

She said: “It is essential that the Labour Party is steadfast in its support for Israel and a negotiated two-state solution. ”

LFI director Jennifer Gerber said: “Anne is a true friend of Israel, and brings a deep understanding of the region.”

Previous chair John Woodcock stepped down in January due to ill health.