MEPs’ praise for Farage as he quits

YORKSHIRE MEPs Jane Collins and Mike Hookem have praised the work of Nigel Farage following his resignation as UKIP leader today, saying: “His vision has brought independence back to the British people.”

Ms Collins, who stood for election as Rotherham’s MP last year, and Mr Hookem said in a statement: “Nigel has achieved his goal and allowed the British people a voice once again.

“Nigel Farage’s tenacity and belief in a Britain free of Brussels has contributed more to our democracy and the empowerment of the British people than any other political leader in the last 20 years.

“Over the years, and through a constant hail of criticism and personal attack, he has taken the theory of Brexit from something which used to be debated in hushed tones, and made it into a political reality.

“Nigel’s fight for British independence has not come without significant personal cost, including giving up his business, forgoing time with his young family, and even having to cope with threats to his safety.

“He should be credited and celebrated as a man of deep principle; who tenaciously stuck by his principles when others would have given up, and for that alone, he deserves official recognition.”

The pair said they hoped Mr Farage would remain “actively involved in the party and British politics”.