Billy Bragg has accused The Times of “twisting his words” after an article claimed the folk singer thought Jeremy Corbyn was stuck in the last century and unable to win over the support of the British electorate.
The left-wing musician has criticised the paper and insisted he is a firm supporter of the Labour party leader.
Reporting on Bragg’s speech at the Edinburgh Book Festival on Monday evening, the paper said Bragg called Mr Corbyn a “20th Century Labour man” who was unable to reach the electorate. They also described him as a “formerly loyal supporter”.
In the article, Bragg is quoted as saying the party needs to go further in engaging with the British public and warning against the danger of becoming a tribalist party.
The quote continues: "We can’t afford to go down that route if we are to retain the ability to represent ordinary working people".
Bragg, who has voiced his support for Mr Corbyn on a number of occasions, argued the paper had misreported his views.
“Don't believe the b/s about me in The Times. I'm still supporting Corbyn, just want more talk about devo for England and fair votes for all,” he wrote on Twitter.
“Can everyone please stay calm about The Times twisting my words to attack Corbyn. I remain a JC supporter. Don't let Murdoch sow discord.”
Bragg has previously commended Mr Corbyn for galvanising the support of a new generation of activists and leading the Labour Party towards the left. Bragg invited the politician to perform at his Left Field tent at Glastonbury this summer.
The Times and Bragg did not immediately respond to request for comment.
