Farage: I never directly racially abused anyone

Nigel Farage has denied “directly racially abusing” fellow pupils during his time as a schoolboy at Dulwich College in southeast London.

- NICOLE WOOTTON-CANE, DAVID MADDOX

During a grilling over allegations he directed racist and antisemitic language at schoolmates, Reform UK leader told ITV he had never made racist comments in a “hurtful or insulting way” or with “intent”.

It comes after reports in The Guardian from more than a dozen Dulwich College boys who alleged he had made racist and antisemitic comments during their time at school. One former classmate, Bafta and Emmy-award winning director Peter Ettedgui, 61, claimed Mr Farage had told him “Hitler was right” and “Gas them”, adding a long hiss to simulate the sound of the gas showers.

The Reform leader was challenged on the remarks ahead of a rally in North Wales where his party hope to win next year’s Senedd elections.

During an interview with ITV, Mr Farage was asked whether he did racially abuse fellow pupils during his time at the college. “No. This was 49 years ago, by the way,” he answered. “Have I ever tried to take it out on any individual on the basis of where they’re from? No.”

Asked whether he was categorically denying the allegations, Mr Farage said: “I would never, ever do it in a hurtful or insulting way.”