Former Teacher Reveals Disturbing Allegations Against Farage

Allegations surrounding former UKIP leader Nigel Farage have resurfaced, highlighting troubling behavior during his teenage years at Dulwich College. A former teacher, Chloë Deakin, has come forward with a letter she wrote in June 1981, expressing her concerns about Farage’s conduct and views, which were reportedly marked by bullying and far-right tendencies.

Deakin, then a young English teacher, recalled a discussion among her students about Farage, who was turning 17 at the time. “His name came up in relation to bullying,” she stated. “I was shocked to hear that this boy was apparently getting away with this kind of behavior.” Colleagues corroborated her concerns, describing Farage’s fascination with far-right ideologies and incidents where he allegedly participated in offensive behavior, such as “goose-stepping” during cadet activities.

Despite the disturbing accounts from students and staff, Farage was included on a draft list of prefects by headteacher David Emms and deputy Terry Walsh. Deakin expressed her dismay at this decision, leading her to write a letter to Emms, articulating her strong opposition. In the letter, she referred to a colleague’s comment that Farage was a “fascist” but still a suitable candidate for the role, which sparked significant reactions from staff.

In her letter, Deakin detailed a specific incident where Farage was so offensive to a fellow student that he had to be removed from class. She also mentioned reports of him singing songs associated with the Hitler Youth at a cadet camp, stating, “In his experience, views of that kind expressed by boys of that age are deep-seated and are meant.”

The letter, originally brought to light by journalist Michael Crick in a 2013 report, underscores the severity of the allegations. Deakin, now 74, reflected on the incident, emphasizing the importance of accountability among future leaders. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these leaders are enlightened and compassionate,” she wrote.

Recent reports from the Guardian have added fuel to the fire, with over 30 contemporaries of Farage recounting experiences of racism and antisemitism during their time at Dulwich. These allegations have sparked what many are calling a significant crisis in Farage’s political career, particularly in light of his responses to the claims.

Initially, Farage’s legal team denied any allegations of racist behavior, threatening legal action against the Guardian. However, in a subsequent interview with the BBC, Farage acknowledged that comments made during “banter” over four decades ago could be interpreted differently today but denied any intentional targeting of individuals.

Deakin’s testimony is reinforced by the accounts of former pupils who describe their experiences of being bullied and demeaned by Farage during his school years. The allegations reportedly span from ages 13 to 18, continuing after his tenure as a prefect. Despite calls for an apology from various groups, including Holocaust survivors and former classmates, Farage has yet to express regret for his actions.

Reflecting on her own experience, Deakin noted the culture at Dulwich College, stating that it would have been “unthinkable” for such behavior to go unpunished in her previous teaching roles. She also mentioned that her motivation to write to Emms was driven by a genuine concern for the wellbeing of students rather than any political agenda.

The ongoing discourse around Farage’s past raises important questions about accountability and the impact of unchecked behavior in educational environments. Deakin remarked, “Farage’s unwillingness to offer a straightforward apology for his past behaviors is puzzling and concerning.”

As the political landscape shifts, and with Farage’s party potentially poised for electoral success, the implications of these revelations could extend far beyond the classroom. Deakin’s courageous decision to speak out highlights the need for a deeper examination of historical grievances and their relevance in today’s political climate.

The response to these allegations will likely set a precedent not only for Farage but for others in positions of leadership who may face scrutiny over their past actions.