Christmas cheer in short supply at Ukip HQ

As MPs and staff depart Westminster to begin their Christmas break, spare a thought for those at Ukip HQ who have found their party on the brink of civil war today after Douglas Carswell called for Nigel Farage to be replaced with a new leader.

What’s more, if that wasn’t enough to dampen the festive spirit for Kippers, Steerpike understands that they have further reason for woe. After a testing year for the party which saw disappointing election results and financial difficulties, they have been dealt the ultimate blow: no Christmas staff party.

While over at Labour HQ in Brewers Green, Corbynistas and Blairites alike have been partying most nights this week at a range of festive events, the party once famous for its partying ways has been rather quiet. The Christmas cheer appears to have bypassed the Ukip office where staff have found themselves so busy that no one has managed to get round to organising a company bash. Still, they have not been completely forgotten — a luxury hamper did at least arrive as a Christmas gift from their dear leader Nigel Farage.