Wilders in London

Like Mr Eugenides, I’m on record opposing the disgraceful ban that prevented Geert Wilders from entering the United Kingdom. So in that sense it’s a good thing that he’s in London today to show his little film to Lord Pearson and his pals.

What I don’t understand, like our redoubtable Greek friend, is why UKIP should be so keen to associate themselves with Wilders. For a party that I’d thought spent a lot of time stressing that it should in no way, shape or form be considered a kind of mini, more respectable BNP it’s curious how keen they are to chum around with people such as Wilders.

Each to their own, of course, and, again, I’m glad that he can now visit this country. That’s a good thing. But it doesn’t require one to approve of him.

UPDATE: Lord Pearson’s office email to stress that none of this has any connection to UKIP and was arranged before Pearson became leader and that this invitation was not issued on behalf of UKIP etc.