A former neo-Nazi activist, Joshua Bonehill-Paine, has withdrawn his candidacy for a UK council election following significant backlash. Bonehill-Paine was previously jailed for posting antisemitic material and convicted of racially harassing a former Labour MP.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch had initially defended the selection, stating that Bonehill-Paine had been rehabilitated and that the party believes in second chances. However, Bonehill-Paine announced his withdrawal, explaining that opposition parties would likely focus their efforts on his past actions rather than his platform.
Bonehill-Paine has described his former views as "indefensible" and claims to have spent years opposing antisemitism since his release from prison. He stated that his experience would be better utilized advising the Conservative party on combating extremism and radicalization.
Badenoch confirmed that Bonehill-Paine will now take on a role as an adviser to the party's Culture and Integration Commission. She expressed sadness that he would not be representing his community as a candidate but welcomed his new position, stating she was glad he would work with her and the party on tackling radicalization.