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Nigel Farage defends Reform UK's vetting after undercover footage exposes councillors making racist and sexist remarks
Overview
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has defended his party's vetting procedures after an ITV News undercover investigation captured several Reform councillors and candidates making racist, sexist, and offensive comments. Farage insisted the party vets to a high standard, stating that future comments cannot be predicted. The individuals involved have either resigned or been suspended and are facing investigations, while other political parties have strongly condemned the remarks.
Key points
- Nigel Farage defended Reform UK's vetting process, stating the party vets to a high standard but cannot predict future comments.
- An ITV News undercover investigation filmed Reform figures, including Solihull deputy mayor Alan Feeney, using racist, violent, and sexist language.
- Feeney was recorded referring to Asian homeowners as 'parasites' and suggesting immigration limits, and has since resigned from the party to sit as an independent.
- Other candidates, including Chris Whelan and Jamie Campbell, were recorded making offensive remarks about a proposed mosque and a female candidate.
- Bromley councillor Dean Miller was filmed making racist statements about London's demographics and has also resigned from Reform.
- Reform UK stated that the individuals filmed are under investigation and have either resigned or been suspended, while other political parties condemned the remarks.