The Wales Green Party has declined an invitation from the BBC Wales to debate at a radio hustings to be held on Wednesday 13th May at 11.30.
They have taken this step to highlight the negligence of the Electoral Commission, who wrongly allowed Britain First to use the name of Private Lee Rigby on their election material, against his families’ will. The family are reportedly very upset.
Greens have asked the BBC to read out the following statement during the programme: “Greens stand for a thoughtful and progressive politics. We believe wholeheartedly in the principles of democracy, however, on this occasion feel that as Britain First should rightfully have been disqualified By the Electoral Commission from taking part in these Euro elections, our silent protest is in keeping with the values of our society.
We abhor the fact that Private Lee Rigby’s name should be used by this organisation without his families’ permission, and will appear at the BBC offices at the due time, but outside the building where we are willing to discuss all matters relating to this election in a legal and dignified way.”
Pippa Bartolotti, Wales Green Party leader and lead Euro candidate said,” Whilst we always welcome the chance to put forward our ideas in the media, we do not feel that giving a platform to ultra right wing parties acting in an illegal way will in any way forward the cause of democracy. It is lamentable that the BBC have been put in this position.“
The Wales leader will be joining a protest and open air husting outside the BBC offices in Llandaff at 11.30 on Wednesday.