Former Brexit Party MEP Rupert Lowe has made a £1,000 donation to a charity following a public outcry over his controversial use of their rowers to make a political statement about immigration.
The incident occurred when Lowe, a prominent Eurosceptic figure, took members of the charity's rowing team to illustrate his stance on immigration policies. The move was widely criticised as exploitative and insensitive.
In response to the backlash, Lowe issued a statement saying, "While my intention was to highlight legitimate concerns, I recognise that involving the charity's rowers was inappropriate. I have therefore made a £1,000 donation to support their valuable work."
The charity, which provides opportunities for young people through rowing, has accepted the donation but declined to comment further on the controversy.
Political commentators have described the episode as another example of the polarising nature of immigration debates in UK politics. "This incident shows how easily well-intentioned discussions can cross the line into insensitivity," said one analyst.
The donation comes as immigration remains a key political issue, with all major parties positioning themselves ahead of the next general election.
