Nigel Farage has denied saying anything racist “with malice” as he launched a fierce attack on the BBC over its coverage of allegations made by former schoolmates. The Reform UK leader demanded an apology from the broadcaster, accusing it of double standards.
Speaking to reporters, Farage criticised BBC presenter Emma Barnett for questioning him about claims he made antisemitic comments at Dulwich College in the 1970s. He described Barnett as a “lower-grade presenter” and said the BBC had broadcast racist content in the past, citing Bernard Manning, Alf Garnett, and The Black and White Minstrel Show.
Farage read a letter from a former Jewish classmate who said he never heard the politician racially abuse anyone. The letter described the era as having “macho tongue-in-cheek schoolboy banter” that was “never with malice”. Farage declined to call his accusers liars, stating: “Recollections may vary.”
Labour chair Anna Turley said Farage should apologise to the victims of his alleged remarks, while the Conservatives claimed he had admitted the allegations were true by failing to deny them outright. Farage insisted he would no longer speak to the BBC, calling its conduct “despicable”.
