Ukip MEP resigns amid investigation into alleged misuse of funds
Roger Helmer, known for controversial views on climate change, rape and homosexuality, will stand down in July
Roger Helmer, a key member of Ukip’s top team, is resigning from the European parliament, ahead of a demand to repay around £100,000 of EU money for alleged misuse of public funds.
The veteran politician, known for his controversial remarks on climate change, rape and homosexuality, is standing down from the European parliament on 31 July, after an 18-year career as an MEP.
He can appeal against the repayment demand at the European court of justice in Luxembourg. If he loses, the parliament has the right to claw back the money by withholding a chunk of a generous “transitional allowance” MEPs get on their departure.
UKIP MEP Roger Helmer denies EU cash misuse claims
UKIP MEP Roger Helmer has denied claims he is retiring over demands to repay up to £100,000 for allegedly misusing EU funds.
The Guardian reports East Midlands MEP Mr Helmer improperly employed a full time UKIP party worker as an assistant.
But the 73-year-old denies the claims and said he had been thinking about retiring since 2011. He will stand down at the end of July.
Read on… http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leicestershire-40272053
