Tim Farron sacks Liberal Democrat candidate David Ward in antisemitism row

Chris Radburn/PA Archive/PA Images

LONDON — The Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron has sacked one of his party's general election candidates following allegations of antisemitism.

Farron said the former Bradford East MP David Ward was "unfit to represent" the party for the seat in the upcoming general election.

Farron had initially resisted calls to axe Ward, saying on Wednesday morning that while he disagreed with Ward's views,  "it is not the job of the leader to impose who is and who isn't the candidate."

However, Farron has now reversed his position.

 "I believe in a politics that is open, tolerant and united," Farron said in a statement.

"David Ward is unfit to represent the party and I have sacked him."

Farron's reversal follows a public attack on the issue from Theresa May during prime minister's questions.

Ward has long been a controversial figure in the party due to his views on the holocaust and Israel. Farron has previously described Ward's comments as "offensive" but had resisted calls to oust him.

Responding to the news, Mr Ward told the Press Association: "The anti-Semitic thing is a nonsense. It is just used, it's a well known tactic, how do you avoid conversation or any criticism about Israel? Just say people are anti-Semitic.

"I am certainly not anti-Semitic."

This is a developing story...

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