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Ukip leader Nigel Farage returned to Britain and to the Newark by-election today to face questions over tabloid accusations following his appearance at the Institute of Travel and Tourism conference in Malta.
The Daily Mirror claimed on its front page that Farage had partied till “shortly before dawn” in Malta while his party activists campaigned in the rain in Newark.
The story also accused him of impropriety with an ITT board member, an allegation which both denied.
Farage described the allegations as “absolutely ridiculous”, saying that he had been photographed holding a woman’s hand as she was disabled and required assistance.
The Mirror quoted Farage saying he was at the ITT conference to raise money for Ukip.
He said: “”I happen to be here at a conference with people who happen to be Ukip supporters in a strong way.”
The newspaper also quoted tweets from ITT members.
Farage won applause at the conference for a keynote address, but his appearance and the ITT’s invite to him also drew criticism from members, some of whom denounced him as dangerous.
A number of delegates dismissed the Mirror’s story this morning, suggesting it was merely a tabloid sting.
David Speakman, chairman of Travel Counsellors, described it as “scumbag journalism”.
Chris Truscott, sales and distribution support director at Carnival UK, said: “I thought Farage was an entertaining and engaging speaker who was very clear with his views and how they related to the travel industry. I think it’s a shame that his attendance isn’t now being reported in a positive way for the travel industry.”
Andrew Mabbutt, chief executive of Feefo, said: “The ITT took a risk inviting Nigel Farage but he gave a interesting keynote address to the conference and there were plenty of people in the audience impressed by what they saw and heard.
“Although I’m completely impartial about the politics, it is a shame that this has taken the gloss off an incredibly successful conference.”