This is why you might not be able to vote for the Brexit Party at the General Election

Brexit party candidates in Kent could be to told to stand aside and not contest the general election it has emerged.

The party, which is headed by the former UKIP leader and South East MEP Nigel Farage, is considering withdrawing candidates from seats where they may take votes from Conservative candidates and in so doing let in remain supporting candidates from other parties.

Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage
Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage

Among the Kent constituencies the party is said to be considering standing aside from is Canterbury.

The seat was won by Labour in 2017 but is among the most marginal constituencies in the country.

It is being heavily targeted by the Conservatives but there are concerns that the Brexit Party could siphon off support at a scale that could tip the balance towards Labour.

The party had previously indicated its intention to contest most of the country's 650 constituencies and has candidates in place in most of Kent's seats.

At a rally held in Maidstone last month, party leader Nigel Farage said he was unconcerned about the prospects of the party affecting the Conservative Brexiteer candidates.

Rosie Duffield won the Canterbury seat in 2017
Rosie Duffield won the Canterbury seat in 2017

Sources have told KentOnline that some candidates have postponed leaflet drops and canvassing until there is clarification of the party’s position.

Mr Farage has said that reports of divisions within the party over its election strategy are idle speculation.

The party is due to launch its campaign tomorrow at it is understood that meetings are expected to take place over the weekend to decide what direction the party should go in.

One Kent candidate said that they were torn over what to do if they were encouraged to stand aside as it would deprive voters of the chance to register a protest over the government’s failure to deliver Brexit.

Who will get your vote?
Who will get your vote?

Mr Farage said: "I've ruled nothing in, I've ruled nothing out. I am making a completely neutral comment ahead of our launch today."

The party, which stormed to victory in the EU elections held earlier this year is said to be considering targeting Labour-held seats in the north of England.

Head to our politics page for expert analysis and all the latest news from your politicians and councils.

Read more: All the latest news from Kent

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More