Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage has quit the party after disagreements with the current leadership.
Farage, who is also a member of the European Parliament, wrote Tuesday that “we are now just a few days away from the most ill-judged political event I have ever been aware of in British politics. The very idea of Tommy Robinson being at the centre of the Brexit debate is too awful to contemplate.”
Farage said that “with a heavy heart, and after all my years of devotion to the party, I am leaving UKIP today. There is a huge space for a Brexit party in British politics, but it won’t be filled by UKIP.”
Farage stated: “under Gerard Batten’s leadership … the party’s direction has changed fundamentally,” adding that Batten’s “obsession” with far-right activist Tommy Robinson “and fixation with the issue of Islam makes UKIP unrecognisable to many of us.”
Batten’s “obsession” with far-right activist Tommy Robinson “and fixation with the issue of Islam makes UKIP unrecognisable to many of us.
Batten appointed Robinson — real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon — as an adviser on rape gangs and prison reform, much to the annoyance of Farage and others in UKIP. Batten on Monday survived a vote of no confidence in his leadership held by the party’s National Executive Committee.
The former leader of the extreme-right English Defence League, Robinson was jailed for 13 months in May for contempt of court, although his conviction was later quashed because of procedural concerns. He has also served prison terms for mortgage fraud and a passport offense.
Help Us Sustain Ad-Free Journalism
Sorry, I Need To Put Out the Begging Bowl
Independent Journalism Needs You
Our unwavering dedication is to provide you with unbiased news, diverse perspectives, and insightful opinions. We're on a mission to ensure that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions, but we can't do it alone. Labour Heartlands is primarily funded by me, Paul Knaggs, and by the generous contributions of readers like you. Your donations keep us going and help us uphold the principles of independent journalism. Join us in our quest for truth, transparency, and accountability – donate today and be a part of our mission!
Like everyone else, we're facing challenges, and we need your help to stay online and continue providing crucial journalism. Every contribution, no matter how small, goes a long way in helping us thrive. By becoming one of our donors, you become a vital part of our mission to uncover the truth and uphold the values of democracy.
While we maintain our independence from political affiliations, we stand united against corruption, injustice, and the erosion of free speech, truth, and democracy. We believe in the power of accurate information in a democracy, and we consider facts non-negotiable.
Your support, no matter the amount, can make a significant impact. Together, we can make a difference and continue our journey toward a more informed and just society.
Thank you for supporting Labour Heartlands