UKIP suspends MEP over ‘extremely serious’ financial allegations
The UK Independence Party has suspended its communities spokesman, over “extremely serious” alleged financial and employment irregularities.
Amjad Bashir – who became an MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber just last May – was suspended by Mr Farage’s party this evening – while he was understood to be defecting to the Conservatives.
Mr Bashir claimed in 2013 that same-sex marriage was a “big mistake”, because it was “meddling” with an age-old institution.
A UKIP spokesman said: “The UK Independence Party has a zero-tolerance policy and takes the matters at hand extremely seriously. The allegations against Mr Bashir are of a grave nature and we will be forwarding our evidence obtained so far to the police.
“UKIP will not tolerate anyone abusing their positions in the party, as we have a firm commitment to differing ourselves from the existing political classes.
“As a result, Mr Bashir’s involvement with the party was suspended today with immediate effect pending further investigations.”
However, the MEP has denied all wrongdoing, rejecting the “absurd and made-up allegations”.
A Conservative source told the Telegraph the allegations were a “desperate attempt” by UKIP to prevent the politician’s defection to the Tories, which was set to be revealed.
Prime Minister David Cameron told the Telegraph in advance: “I’m absolutely delighted that Amjad has decided to leave UKIP and join the Conservative Party. His story is inspiring.
“It’s another sign that in this great country of ours you can come to Britain without very much and you can be a member of the European Parliament, an MP, sit in the Cabinet.”
