Ex-BNP leader Nick Griffin accused of stirring up racial hatred with cartoon

Former leader of the British National Party Nick Griffin has appeared in court accused of stirring up racial hatred - for allegedly sharing a cartoon on social media that showed a giant spider with a Star of David on its head.

Mr Griffin, 66, of Welshpool, Powys, is accused of sharing a "threatening, abusive or insulting" cartoon on X in 2021, in a private prosecution by the Campaign Against Antisemitism.

He appeared at Southwark Crown Court via video link, alongside his solicitor Richard Derby and defence lawyer Tom Edwards.

The court heard an application to dismiss the charges was submitted, to be heard at the same court on 13 April. A provisional date for a trial was set for 11 May.

Mr Griffin faces two counts of stirring up racial hatred.

Judge Christopher Hehir ordered the ex-Member of the European Parliament to return to the court to attend the next hearing in April.