Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is facing mounting pressure to apologise after multiple former schoolmates came forward with allegations of racist behaviour during his time at an elite London school.
Schoolboy allegations surface
More than a dozen former pupils of Dulwich College have accused the prominent politician of making antisemitic and racist remarks while they were students together. The claims, first reported by The Guardian, describe behaviour that allegedly occurred nearly five decades ago.
In an initial interview with ITV, Mr Farage appeared to acknowledge he might have made offensive remarks, but described them as "banter" and stated he never engaged in racism "with intent". This response has drawn significant criticism from anti-racism campaigners and political opponents.
Farage's denial and defence
Following the broadcast interview, the Reform UK leader issued a prepared statement categorically denying the allegations of racially abusing fellow students. He dismissed the claims as politically motivated, noting their emergence coincides with his party leading in recent polls.
Mr Farage highlighted his political record against extremism in his defence and suggested the timing of these allegations was suspicious. The controversy comes at a sensitive moment for the Reform UK leader, whose party has been gaining traction in voter surveys.
Growing calls for apology
Lord Mann, the government's independent advisor on antisemitism, has been particularly critical of Mr Farage's response. He condemned the attempt to dismiss the allegations as "playground banter" and joined growing calls for the politician to issue a formal apology.
The row has sparked broader conversations about accountability for historical behaviour and how politicians address allegations from their past. With multiple accusers coming forward and senior figures demanding contrition, the pressure on Mr Farage shows no signs of abating as the story continues to develop.
