MEP anger over football poppy ban

MEP Paul Nuttall

The decision to ban England and Scotland football players from wearing poppies in their World Cup qualifier is “complete poppycock,” said UKIP leadership contender Paul Nuttall.

“It is utter nonsense for FIFA to forbid them wearing poppies on their shirts because they sniffily consider it ‘a political statement’,” said Mr Nuttall, North West MEP.

“It makes my blood absolutely boil that they should interfere in this way. How dare they?

“Wearing a poppy for mark Remembrance Sunday is a proud tradition in this country and with the terrible conflicts still raging in the world it has never been more important to show respect for those who gave their lives to keep us safe.”