Freddy Vachha, who was elected unopposed as UKIP leader earlier this year, has been suspended pending a formal complaint of bullying and harassment.

Senedd Member Neil Hamilton has been temporarily appointed leader of UKIP in the United Kingdom whilst the investigation goes on.

UKIP take reports of bullying and harassment very seriously, regardless of the rank of the alleged perpetrator.

In a statement, the party said:

"Freddy Vachha has been suspended from membership of UKIP, pending a formal investigation of a complaint of bullying, harassment, verbal abuse and other conduct likely to bring the party into disrepute.  Suspension from party membership automatically suspends Mr Vachha from the UKIP leadership.

“It would be unfair to Mr Vachha give further details of the allegations against him prior to the conclusion of the judicial process.  This will be conducted formally, impartially and subject to the rules of natural justice.

“UKIP's National Executive Committee met on Saturday and unanimously resolved to appoint Neil Hamilton MS, leader of UKIP in Wales and a Member of the Welsh Parliament, to act as interim leader of UKIP in the United Kingdom.

“UKIP take reports of bullying and harassment very seriously, regardless of the position of the alleged perpetrator."

Ben Walker
UKIP National Party Chairman