UKIP Disgrace Britain's Proud Reputation

12.00.00am GMT Thu 25th Feb 2010

In a week that has seen the issue of bullying feature high on the British media's agenda, the European Parliament yesterday witnessed its own shocking bout of childish, playground name-calling.

Speaking at a debate between the European Parliament and President of the European Council, UKIP MEP Nigel Farage set upon Herman Van Rompuy who was recently elected by member states to chair their meetings and represent them at such events.

Ignoring many of the important issues that the public want politicians to deal with, Farage launched a personal attack on Van Rompuy, describing him as a "damp rag" with the appearance of a "low-grade bank clerk". He also described Belgium as a "non-entity".

South West Lib Dem MEP Graham Watson commented;

"Whatever Nigel Farage thinks about the EU or Herman Van Rompuy as a politician, he has no right to treat another person with such disrespect.

"Farage demonstrated exactly the kind of behaviour we are trying to rid our society of. He resembled a binge-drinking lout, mindlessly hurling abuse and insults outside a kebab shop on a Saturday night.

"UKIP have splashed a video of the attack all over their website and clearly think it is something to boast about. But it is not. These personal insults betray true British values of respect, and damage our reputation in the world."

It is believed by many that, eight months after seeking and securing election in the European polls, Farage has decided he no longer wants to be an MEP. He is trying to get himself kicked out of the European Parliament so he can portray himself as a "rebel" in an upcoming General Election campaign.

Watson continued;

"MEPs are elected to represent the views of their constituents in Europe for five years. Farage has once again shown that he cares only for self-promotion and his own career.

"He has let down his constituents, himself and Britain."