BNP leader faces race charges

The far right British National Party leader Nick Griffin is to face trial in race-hate charges arising out of an undercover documentary.

The far right British National Party's (BNP) leader Nick Griffin is to go on trial in race-hate charges arising out of an undercover documentary about his party. The BNP has always been against immigration and its activists and supporters were alleged to have been behind the race riots (between Mirpuri and white youths) in Bradford a few years ago, which was termed the worst after Brixtion riots two decades ago.

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Griffin will appear at Leeds Crown Court alongside party activist Mark Collett. Both men were charged following a police investigation consequent to the televising of the BBC Secret Agent programme. It featured a number of BNP activists.

Subsequently, Griffin, 45, was charged in April last year following a long-running investigation into the documentary The Secret Agent, which secretly filmed party activists. The revelation of what was said had created a major stir.

He is accused of four counts of using words or behaviour intended or likely to stir up racial hatred.

The charges relate to two separate incidents on January 19 and May 5, 2004, which were recorded during the documentary. Collett, 24, is charged with eight race-hate offences. Both men are denying the charges.