Britain’s equalities watchdog writes to Reform UK after party members were filmed making racist remarks and joking about incest

Britain’s equalities watchdog has written to Reform UK after party members were filmed making racist remarks and joking about incest.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said it had contacted Nigel Farage‘s party seeking ‘more information’ in the wake of an ITV investigation.

It added that it had received complaints alleging unlawful activity under equalities laws, including ‘concerns about racial and sexual remarks’.

Undercover filming – gathered as part of a year-long probe by ITV Exposure – revealed Reform councillors and candidates using racist language and making sexist jokes.

Some Reform members quit the party after the footage showed them referring to black children as ‘animals’ and suggesting the King should be beheaded for being a secret Muslim. 

Another excerpt saw a Reform member claim his area had become ‘infested’ with Asian families.

Labour has claimed the examples of ‘extreme racism’ cannot be brushed off as ‘a few bad apples’ and demanded action by Mr Farage.

The Reform leader is now facing the prospect of a probe by the EHRC, as the watchdog revealed it would ‘assess’ the complaints it has received.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said it had contacted Nigel Farage’s party seeking ‘more information’ in the wake of an ITV investigation

An EHRC spokesman said: ‘We have written to Reform UK regarding concerns expressed following ITV News’ investigation, ‘Undercover: A Year in Reform’, which aired last month.

‘We have asked for more information including what action the party is taking to comply with the Equality Act 2010.

‘Following the broadcast of ITV’s documentary, we received complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, including concerns about racial and sexual remarks expressed by councillors, prospective councillors and members.

‘As with every complaint we receive, we will assess the information provided carefully and, following that consideration, take action where appropriate.

‘Political parties, like all duty-bearers, must comply with the Equality Act and take steps to avoid discrimination or harassment including on the grounds of race, religion or belief and sex.

‘We have guidance advising parties on their responsibilities under the Act and urge them to consider it.

‘This could include reviewing party policies or practices to identify areas of potential discrimination, harassment or victimisation that need to be addressed.

‘As Britain’s equality regulator and a national human rights institution, we recognise the right to freedom of expression is fundamental to our democracy and must be protected, even when dealing with complex and sensitive issues.

‘Similarly, everyone has a right not to be discriminated against, including on the grounds of race, religion, belief or sex.

‘The right to freedom of expression and the right to be free from discrimination are not mutually exclusive and must be considered together.

‘We urge those in positions of authority to balance these rights appropriately and respectfully.’

Asked about the ECHR action during a Westminster press conference on Monday, Mr Farage said: ‘We are entirely confident that our employment procedures and our vetting procedures are as rigorous as any other party in this country.

‘What you can’t legislate against, what you can’t vet against is people saying stupid things in certain circumstances.’

A Reform UK spokesman said: ‘We are confident we have fully complied with our obligations under the Equality Act. There is no room for racism in Reform UK.’