UKIP defends candidate in offensive phone call row

A UKIP candidate has been heard making offensive remarks about gay people, other UKIP members and Chigwell in Essex, in a recording obtained by the Mail on Sunday.

Kerry Smith, who was selected for the South Basildon and Thurrock seat this week, has apologised.

Speaking to Andrew Neil on Sunday Politics, UKIP MEP Patrick O'Flynn said that Kerry Smith had not been removed as a candidate, as the phone call had been made some time ago while he was taking prescription medication following an injury.

"Anyone who's a parliamentary candidate for UKIP, particularly in a target and winnable seat like South Basildon and Thurrock, has to watch how they express themselves," Mr O'Flynn said.

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