UKIP criticise Labour candidate over Trident position

The submarine-based nuclear deterrent is due to be retired in the 2020s, but there is a debate among politicians as to whether the scheme should be renewed.

The Labour party has said in its manifesto that it “remains committed to a minimum, credible, independent nuclear capability through a continuous at-sea deterrent.”

But Josh Fenton-Glynn, Labour PPC for Calder Valley, told a hustings meeting at Todmorden Town Hall that he will rebel against his own party if he was asked to back a renewed Trident scheme.

Mr Rogan said: “After hearing this, it occurred to me that no matter what Ed Milliband might protest to the contrary, he would be facing a back-bench revolt when it came to Labour’s own manifesto promises concerning the defence of our country.

“There we have it, from the horse’s mouth and before a room full of Todmorden folk.

“If that’s what English people want - those who would traditionally support Labour - in three weeks’ time they should go ahead and vote Labour again.

“If however, if they would rather rely on proper defences to protect us from mad Russians and deranged Koreans (to name but two), better support UKIP.”

Mr Fenton-Glynn said there was no secret about his position on Trident and confirmed that he would vote against Trident if he became elected regardless of his party’s line.

He said: “I’ve always been clear on my position on Trident. - I don’t think it makes military sense, economic sense or moral sense to keep it.”