Key facts
- Reform UK candidates will not be banned for liking Tommy Robinson's social media posts.
- Nigel Farage said he would not ban anyone for supporting Robinson, but would for "outright wrong" statements.
- Vetting of candidates is ongoing and considered rigorous by Farage.
Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, said Tuesday that candidates will not be banned for liking social media posts by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Farage stated that while Robinson is not his "cup of tea," he would not prohibit candidates from expressing support for him. He clarified that sanctions could be applied if a post was "outright wrong," but emphasized a need for sensible vetting rather than a "cancel culture."
Farage also claimed that Reform UK vets its council candidates to a higher standard than other political parties. The party has faced scrutiny over its vetting processes, particularly after an ITV documentary suggested candidates were encouraged to delete accounts supporting Robinson before applying.