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Labour MPs were among five major terror targets lined up for attacks by far-right extremists.

The Home Secretary Sajid Javid has ann­ounced that 19 terror plots – 14 by Islamists and five by far-right groups – have been smashed in two years.

He said there were even more plans that were prevented before they began, suggesting MI5 and police had beaten dozens of potential attacks in that time.

A source told the Mirror: “The far-right has been on the rise for years. There has been an increased threat of attack, in terms of actual plots, against the left wing, particularly political supporters of Jeremy Corbyn .”

The insider added the Labour leader’s backers have been targeted over his Palestinian links and what is perceived by some as a lack of support for British service personnel over investigations in Northern Ireland.

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Racism and hatred stirred up by frustration over Brexit are also said to be among the causes of the terror threat against left wing politicians. Sources told the Mirror that between 90 and 150 individuals were involved in the plots – most of whom are at large and were not jailed.

The source added that other targets by the far-right have included ethnic groups and those who are “blamed for the increase in threats from Muslim extremism”.

Yesterday Mr Javid revealed the staggering number of plots thwarted, adding: “But those are just the headline figures.

“For each attack prevented, there are dozens more that never have the chance to begin in the first place. And, despite this impressive work, the tempo of terror activity is increasing.”

Labour MP Jo Cox was murdered in 2016 by Thomas Mair who targeted her for her support of the EU. During the attack he shouted: “Keep Britain independent.”

Neo-Nazi paedophile Jack Renshaw, 23, was recently jailed for at least 20 years for plotting to kill Labour MP Rosie Cooper in a terror attack.

(Image: PA)

While Labour MP Jess Phillips has admitted fearing for her health over online threats and insults – many from far-right groups.

As well as the far-right threat, MI5 and police counter-terror units face soaring danger from the Islamic State after its caliphate was destroyed.

The Mirror has learnt that of the 19 thwarted plots revealed by Mr Javid, few individuals have been prosecuted for terrorism.

(Image: PA)

Many plots are smashed by MI5 acting covertly to taint the plans without making arrests and tying up resources. The insider said it can involve people being made aware they have been under surveillance for a long time to convince them an attack will not work.

Mr Javid also announced plans for a new espionage bill to crack down on “hostile state activity” against Britain.