Soames calls for action to stop BNP using Churchill's image

Published on Friday 20 March 2009 19:31

NICHOLAS Soames, the Conservative MP, yesterday called for action to be taken against the British National Party to stop it using an image of his grandfather, Sir Winston Churchill, on a campaign leaflet.

Mr Soames, 61, said he "very strongly" objected to the use of Sir Winston's face on a on a leaflet entitled "This Britain is yours!", saying it gave the impression the former prime minister would share the BNP's beliefs, but Sir Winston would "never support a party whose platform is hate".

The leaflet uses a picture of Sir Winston's face superimposed with the words "This Britain is yours!" in large capital letters. Underneath, it reads: "Millions of our ancestors gave their lives to ensure you have the freedom to enjoy it. Your country. Your land. Your home. Do not betray their sacrifice!"

The opposing side features BNP contact details and the line "The TRUE face of the British National Party".

Asked about the leaflet, Mr Soames said: "The law does not allow for Churchill's family to protest against the image being used – if it did, you can rest assured we would pursue all ends to do so. So I am writing to the Electoral Commission to ask them what they can do."

Simon Darby, the BNP deputy leader, vowed to continue using the image and said Sir Winston's views on immigration and Islam meant he was "pretty much on our wavelength".

He added: "There's nothing the Electoral Commission can do about it, but Mr Soames is more than welcome to try.