MEPs Richard Corbett and Roger Knapman debate the UKIP on PM

This evening's PM programme on Radio 4 had a debate following the launch of the attack by 'Britain in Europe' and written by Corbett, which was revealed on this blog yesterday evening, and may be read from this link. Press reports on this Britain in Europe document may be read here and here.

The discussion which will be available for replay on the BBC's Radio Player 'Listen Again' facility until tomorrow's programme, got underway at around five twenty-five .

Richard Corbett said in his view that UKIP was more or less racist. Knapman pointed out the leaflet was publicly funded, denied by Corbett. The Labour MEP alleged that UKIP are an extreme party, as borne out in his paper, which he stressed was available on his website and that of Britain in Europe.

Knapman amazingly stated that UKIP were the only party that required all new members to sign a statement that they had never been a member of the BNP. I believe this is untrue! Corbett pointed out the fact of the BNP Treasurer, a Mr Brayshaw, having recently been the Chairman of UKIP's Vale of York Branch. The discussion then became something of a slanging match and further comments could not be recorded.

Yet more proof, as if any were needed, that Knapman is incapable of fulfilling the role of party leader. He has just lied on BBC Radio Four the PM programme at 1730 London time 12th October 2004.