Nigel Farage refuses to answer "smears"

WATCH: Farage confronted about employing ‘former mistress’

WATCH: Farage confronted about employing ‘former mistress’

Ukip leader Nigel Farage today refused to answer claims that he has employed his wife as well as his 'former mistress' at taxpayers' expense.

Speaking in the European Parliament earlier today, former Ukip MEP Nicki Sinclaire accused Farage of misusing his allowances.

"With unemployment still a problem across Europe and indeed the UK, does Mr Farage think it's a fair use of taxpayers' money, namely his secretarial allowance, not only to employ his wife Kirsten but his former mistress Annabelle Fuller?" she asked.

"Is this a responsible use of taxpayers' money Mr Farage?"

Farage refused to answer the question. A party spokesperson later said they would not comment on "cowardly and malicious smears."

Under European Parliament rules, MEPs are not allowed to employ close relatives, other than during "transitional" periods.

Fuller is currently a press officer for the party.

Ukip's use of expenses have come under increasing scrutiny after claims that their MEPs have been encouraged to divert parliamentary resources to the party nationally.