Le Pen trip 'sign of far right's rise'

Published on Monday 26 April 2004 01:00

THE controversial visit by French National Front leader Jean-Marie Le Pen to Britain is a sign of the growing strength of the far right at home, it was claimed today.

Hundreds of anti-racism campaigners demonstrated yesterday when Mr Le Pen spoke at a press conference in support of the British National Party, which is publicising its forthcoming European election campaign.

Ahead of the high-profile visit as a guest of BNP leader Nick Griffin, Home Secretary David Blunkett warned Mr Le Pen that he faced arrest if he did anything to incite racial hatred.

BNP spokesman Dr Phil Edwards said:

"It raises our profile that an internationally important figure is interested in helping our campaign. It shows that we are

set to become a significant political force in this country."

Massive security stopped protesters gathering within miles of the BNP’s black-tie dinner for Le Pen last night in rural Wales.