Suzanne Evans, candidate for Ukip leader, has been accused of advocating fascist beliefs in regards to her comments following the High Cou
rt’s decision to give Parliament a vote on triggering Article 50.
Evans, 51, the former Deputy Chair of the party, said in an interview on Radio 4’s Today Programme “I think there is a debate to be had about whether or not judges should be subject to some kind of democratic control,” suggesting that the independence of judges be overruled by the political process.
She questioned the “legitimacy of the decision” because of the perceived pro-EU views of the three High Court Judges. The three judges have been subject to widespread criticism from the right-wing media, with the Daily Mail branding them as “Enemies of the People”.
Labour Brexit spokesper
son Keir Starmer called Evans’ comments “irresponsible”, suggesting that the role of an independent judiciary is central to democracy.
The comm
ents from Evans echoes the anxiety from some Leave campaigners that Parliament will vote to stop the Brexit process. At present, Remain MPs outnumber Leave MPs by a significant margin, however it is unclear how many will vote to block the triggering of Article 50.
Former Ukip leaver and prominent Leave campaigner Nigel Farage has pledged to lead a “100,000 strong march” on the Supreme Court if the ruling is appealed. Liberal Democrats leader Tim Farron welcomed the result, adding that the “British people voted for a departure and not a destination”.
Prime Minister Theresa May previously indicated that Article 50 would be triggered by the end of March 2017, however it is unclear how recent developments will affect this. Ukip’s new leader will be decided on the 28th November.
