Nigel Farage has publicly denied allegations of racial abuse directed at fellow pupils during his time at Dulwich College, a public school in south London. The claims, reported by The Guardian, involve more than a dozen of Farage’s contemporaries who assert that he used racist and antisemitic language as a teenager.
At a recent Reform UK event in Wales, Farage was questioned by ITV News about the accusations. He responded firmly, stating, “No, this is 49 years ago by the way, 49 years ago. Have I ever tried to take it out on any individual on the basis of where they’re from? No.” When pressed for clarity, he reiterated, “I would never, ever do it in a hurtful or insulting way.”
In his remarks, Farage emphasized the passage of time, noting, “I had just entered my teens. Can I remember everything that happened at school? No, I can’t.” He categorically denied being part of any extremist organization or engaging in what he termed “genuine abuse.” When asked again about whether he had racially abused anyone, he stated, “No, not with intent.”
Among those accusing Farage is Peter Ettedgui, a Bafta and Emmy-award-winning director, who described experiences of verbal abuse from Farage during their teenage years. Ettedgui alleged that Farage would approach him and make comments such as, “Hitler was right,” and simulate the sounds of gas chambers, which he found particularly distressing.
In response to Farage’s interview, Lord Mike Katz, a Labour peer and former Chair of the Jewish Labour Movement, criticized Farage’s defense as an attempt to downplay the severity of his past comments. Katz stated, “Just when you thought Nigel Farage couldn’t sink any lower, he is trying to say abhorrent racist comments, including vile antisemitic insults, doesn’t matter.” He argued that Farage’s refusal to confront the allegations reflects poorly on his fitness for public office.
Katz further urged Farage to take responsibility for his past actions and to apologize to those who have come forward with their experiences. “Failure to do so would be yet more evidence that Farage is simply unfit for office,” he concluded.
The Reform UK party has been contacted for a statement regarding the allegations and Farage’s responses. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Farage’s political career and the broader discourse on racism within political circles.
