UK Independence Party talks end
Former TV presenter Robert Kilroy-Silk and other UK Independence Party top brass ended talks in Brussels tonight without resolving differences over the party leadership.
Mr Kilroy-Silk, whose celebrity status helped UKIP boost its seats in the European Parliament from three to 12 at the last euro-elections, has made it clear he would like to take over leadership of the party from current chief Roger Knapman.
Mr Knapman has made it equally clear that he was remaining in charge.
After tonight’s meeting at the European Parliament in Brussels UKIP chief whip Jeffery Titford said: “Senior members of the party had a long and amicable discussion in which on both sides, strong views were expressed.
“All those involved were, however, concerned that although there were legitimate differences on the direction that the party should take, nothing should be done to damage its long-term prospects.”
Mr Titford added: “It was therefore decided that the discussions would continue in order to arrive at a position that would be in the long-term interests of the party.”
Mr Kilroy-Silk had nothing to add as he left the meeting, repeating that the talks had been amicable.
