Kilroy Silk quits Veritas
Robert Kilroy Silk has resigned as leader of Veritas saying the party he founded five months ago had “tried and failed”.
The MEP said it was clear from the general election that “electors are content with the old parties” and he could no longer pretend his party would make any progress.
But Mr Kilroy Silk, who spent a brief period in the UK Independence party, said he was consoled by the fact that the causes Veritas championed were now part of mainstream political debate.
“It was clear from the general election result – and more recently that of the Cheadle by-election – that the electors are content with the old parties and that it would be virtually impossible for a new party to make a significant impact given the nature of our electoral system. We tried and failed,” he said in a statement.
“It is also the case that it is impossible to have an effective political party without a central administration and significant financial support. We have neither.”
Mr Kilroy Silk said the party “must face up to the truth” and, while apologising to the members for quitting, said they should be consoled by the fact that the EU, immigration, multiculturalism and the flat rate of income tax were now debated in the mainstream.
“I would like to thank all those who have been part of our exciting adventure and to say how sad I am that it has come to an end so quickly but I can assure them that I shall continue to campaign on these issues and to represent my East Midlands constituents as an MEP,” he added.
Patrick Eston, the former chairman of Veritas, will lead the party until a leadership election can be held in the autumn. A further statement on the party’s future is expected next week.
