Essex Police Find No Criminal Offences Were Committed By Reform Activists In Channel 4 Documentary
Essex Police have determined that no criminal offences were committed by Reform UK activists who were caught making offensive and racist comments in a Channel 4 documentary.
The investigation followed footage showing canvasser Andrew Parker using a racial slur about Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and another activist, George Jones, describing the Pride flag as "degenerate."
In a statement, Essex Police said, "Having assessed the comments made during a Channel 4 news programme, and all other information available to us, we have concluded that no criminal offences have taken place."
Nigel Farage claims footage was a set-up
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, claimed the filming was a "set-up," arguing that Parker was an actor. However, Channel 4 stands by its "rigorous and duly impartial journalism," stating they did not know Parker before the undercover operation.
Farage expressed dismay at the reported comments, saying, "The appalling sentiments expressed by some in these exchanges bear no relation to my own views, those of the vast majority of our supporters or Reform UK policy. Some of the language used was reprehensible."
He emphasised that those involved would no longer be part of the campaign, reinforcing that Reform UK is a party for everyone who believes in Britain.
The investigation also hinted at a possible breach of local electoral campaign spending limits in Clacton. Despite the controversy, Farage stated, "We will not allow this to distract us from our mission to give voters a real alternative to the establishment parties that have broken Britain."
Keir Starmer says footage is a "test of leadership" for Farage
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer responded to the revelations, calling them a "test of leadership" for Farage. He told the BBC, "I was shocked by what I heard in the report, clearly racist, and I think this is a test of leadership."
Starmer emphasised that it's the leader's responsibility to change their party's culture and ensure that standards are upheld by all members.
In the documentary, Parker also suggested using migrants arriving on small boats as "target practice," and another activist implied that members of the LGBT community are paedophiles. These remarks have added to the scrutiny on Reform UK's practices and the behaviour of its activists.
The controversy arises just a week before the general election, putting additional pressure on Reform UK to address these issues and maintain focus on their campaign. Farage and his team now face the challenge of repairing their public image while continuing their political efforts.
