Socialist candidate in protest at BBC's 'fascist' platform

THE BBC's Rotherham hustings event went ahead last night despite a walk-out by the Socialist candidate in protest at the appearance of far-right parties and the non-appearance of Labour's candidate, Sarah Champion.

SOCIALIST Ralph Dyson walked out of the BBC’s Rotherham by election hustings at the New York Stadium last night in protest at a platform being given to far-right parties.

Teacher Mr Dyson, standing for the Trade Union and Socialist Coalition, was the only candidate to back a Unite Against Fascism protest outside against the BNP, EDL and English Democrats being invited.

“After recently helping to organise two demonstrations against racists and fascists trying to exploit the grooming scandal, I was not prepared to be on a platform with fascist parties,” said Mr Dyson.

“Our campaign is to fight the Tory cuts, end corruption at the top and stop racism.”

Labour candidate Sarah Champion chose not to attend the event to concentrate on campaigning.

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