Jeremy Corbyn is "on the right side of history", one of the most senior Northern Irish Republican politicians has claimed, after the Labour leader's aides were forced to publish a statement making clear he believes the IRA is a terrorist organisation.

Gerry Adams rejected intense criticism of Mr Corbyn after he was shamed by his own shadow defence secretary over his views on the IRA and claimed the Labour leader was "fundamental" in the peace process.

It came after days of mounting pressure on Mr Corbyn after was asked repeatedly on Sunday to condemn the group and failed to do so, before being given a further opportunity at an event in Hull on Monday.

He was also asked whether he believes the IRA, which was responsible for the deaths of many innocent people as a result of bombing campaigns undertaken during the troubles, is a terrorist organisation. Mr Corbyn failed to answer both questions, instead claiming that nationalists and unionists were "brave" and worked hard to broker peace with the Good Friday Agreement, apparently praising IRA leaders.

His remarks led Ben Wallace, the Government security minister who saw service in Northern Ireland, to brand the comments a "disgrace" and warn that Mr Corbyn is "unfit" for office.