But the suggestion has been widely condemned, with critics saying efforts should be focused on making trains safer, rather than segregating women.

Asked if he would revisit the idea, Mr Corbyn told HuffPost UK: "No. It was there [during his leadership campaign] as a discussion item which was taken out of context.

"The response was that people don't want them: end of."

Labour's Stella Creasy was among those who criticised the idea, arguing that it would "normalise" attacks and that women should be safe to sit anywhere.

A picture was circulated on Twitter on Wednesday of a sign posted on Mr Williamson's office door poking fun at the suggestion.

It said: "Woman? Sexually harassed at work? How about working on your own floor?"