A new logo proposed by Ukip has sparked controversy due to its striking resemblance to the Iron Cross, a symbol with a dark history. This symbol was associated with the German Empire and later adopted by the Nazi regime. The Electoral Commission is currently reviewing the new emblem, and its decision could have significant implications.
Ukip, once led by Nigel Farage, previously had an application rejected last November because the Electoral Commission found the original logo offensive. The initial design featured a black cross with a sword and spear. The party has since submitted a new application, which appears similar but without the sword. The new logo includes the word 'Ukip' and the words 'The New Right' underneath.
Sunder Katwala, director of the British Future think tank, has noted the similarity between the new logo and the Iron Cross used by Germany from 1871-1918 and the Nazi regime from 1933-45. He suggests the intended message could be about being 'crusaders', with Ukip focusing on Britain as a Christian nation. They are also campaigning to stop government funding for protective security measures for mosques.
But here's where it gets controversial... The party's focus has shifted in recent years, concentrating on street protests. Activists participated in demonstrations last summer outside hotels housing asylum seekers, although Ukip's presence wasn't always welcomed.
Once a prominent political force, Ukip's electoral representation is now negligible. The party secured 24 seats in the 2014 European parliament elections and 12.6% of the vote in the 2015 general election. Today, the party has only one Kent county councillor and a small number of parish and town councillors. Neil Hamilton, the former Conservative MP, is listed as the party's honorary president.
Nick Tenconi, who became Ukip's leader last year, is steering the party towards a Christian nationalist direction. In October, Tenconi stated that he would deploy the military to 'round up and deport the Islamists, illegals, and the communists.' This message is still being shared on Ukip's social media channels.
Tenconi is also the chief operating officer of Turning Point UK, the British branch of a conservative pressure group. The group continues to have contact with the Conservative party.
Hope Not Hate (HNH), an anti-racism campaign group, has warned that approving Ukip's new application could result in the symbol appearing on ballot papers. Joe Mulhall, HNH's director of research, stated that the far right is growing and attempting to normalize its policies. He noted that Ukip's new logo shows how the party has radicalized since Farage's time, becoming a far-right organization engaged in street politics.
The Electoral Commission is assessing the new emblem and welcomes public comments. The public can share their thoughts on whether the name, description, or emblem meets the registration criteria. Reasons for rejection include being offensive, misleading, or using prohibited words. The Electoral Commission confirmed it received an application from Ukip to register a new emblem.
What do you think? Does the new logo's resemblance to the Iron Cross raise concerns? Do you agree with the assessment that Ukip has become more radical under Tenconi's leadership? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
