UKIP MEP Steven Woolfe is said to be in ‘life-threatening’ condition after an ‘altercation’ between himself and another party member.
The favourite to become the new party leader apparently collapsed after a meeting between UKIP MEPs in Strasbourg, France and was subsequently taken to hospital.
In a statement released by the party, interim UKIP leader Nigel Farage said:
“I deeply regret that following an altercation that took place at a meeting of UKIP MEPs this morning that Steven Woolfe subsequently collapsed and was taken to hospital.
“His condition is serious.”
Statement from @Nigel_Farage pic.twitter.com/XvGLbYvyom
— UK Independence Party (@UKIP) October 6, 2016
A UKIP spokesman said:
“Steven Woolfe MEP was taken suddenly ill in the European Parliament building in Strasbourg this morning.
“He has been taken to hospital in the city and he is undergoing tests.”
According to reports, Woolfe was struck in the face by a punch from a fellow party member and subsequently hit the back of his head off a metal pole.
Sky are reporting that the MEP for the North West has suffered bleeding on the brain and that his condition is ‘life-threatening’.
The 49-year-old complained of losing the feeling on one side of his body before collapsing on the bridge outside the European Parliament’s main chamber.
The incident appears to have occurred during a ‘clear the air’ meeting between Ukip MEPs who were apparently upset that Woolfe, the favourite to lead the party following the shock resignation of Diane James, had considered defecting to the Conservative Party after praising new Prime Minister Theresa May.
UPDATE:
A source within the party has informed media that Woolfe has regained consciousness and “should be okay”.
Finally some relief from the Strasbourg hospital. Senior UKIP source says: "he is now ok – waiting final scan but he conscious"
— Robert Nisbet (@MrRobertNisbet) October 6, 2016
Breaking: Senior UKIP source says he's been reassured from hospital that Steven Woolfe: 'should be OK'
— Kay Burley (@KayBurley) October 6, 2016
