Ex-neo-Nazi activist picked as Tory council candidate
Ex-neo-Nazi activist picked as Tory council candidate

A former neo-Nazi activist has been selected as a Conservative candidate for a Somerset council election, local party members have confirmed.

Selection details

The candidate, who has not been named publicly, was chosen to stand for the Conservatives in an upcoming district council by-election. The selection was made by the local Conservative association, according to party sources.

Concerns raised

Local party members have expressed concern about the candidate's past involvement with far-right groups. The candidate's history is said to include activity with a neo-Nazi organisation, although they are believed to have since renounced those views.

The Conservative Party has not yet commented on the selection. The party's vetting process is under scrutiny, with questions being asked about how the candidate passed the standard checks.