Anti-islam MEP is Ukip front-runner

♦ A Ukip MEP who described Islam as a “death cult” has emerged as the front-runner to be the party’s next leader, if members back a vote of no confidence in Henry Bolton.

Gerard Batten has warned Ukip will be “finished” if Mr Bolton survives the vote on Saturday and senior party figures have called for Mr Batten to be appointed interim leader if the incumbent is ousted. Ukip’s three peers have written to the party’s ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) asking for Mr Batten to be immediately appointed to the role.

They also want the intention to appoint Mr Batten made public before the meeting, so that members know there will not be a “demoralising vacuum” at the top of the party.