Tony Wentworth

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Anthony Wentworth, born c.1982, in London, was a member of the British National Party. He studied politics at the University of Salford, although this has been an issue of controversy for the University due to the BNP's affiliation with the far-right.

Tony Wentworth caused outrage on the University of Salford's campus in 2003 when students became aware of his political standpoint and membership with the BNP. Over 600 signatures were hastily collected by opposed student groups, calling for Wentworth to be expelled from the University on the grounds that he hated non-whites and multi-culturalism. Wentworth had indeed told the Manchester Evening News that "I do disapprove of multi-racial societies full stop. However, I am at Salford University just to get an education. In this country we have a right to freedom of speech and political opinions." Wentworth liased with the BNP and lawyers and was reassured that the University could not expel him on these grounds, and due to freedom of speech legislation he had a perfectly legal entitlement to study at the University no matter what his political affiliation. He remained at the University and continued to pursue positions with the Students' Union. Wentworth stood in the election in 2003 for the position of communications officer, which included editing the university's newspaper, but was not elected.

He was at the centre of further controversy again in 2004 on the University campus when he was involved in a brawl. This led to an appearance at Salford Magistrates court where Wentworth admitted "causing fear and provocation to violence ". He was given a conditional discharge and ordered to pay £200. He was acquitted on another charge.

In 2005 Wentworth stood for election as a parliamentary candidate in the May 5th general election. He was the youngest candidate standing for the constituency of Rossendale and Darwen but was not elected, receiving less than 4% of the vote.

It is believed that Tony Wentworth has since left the BNP and stated that he has no intention of returning. ^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Elections contested

Date of election             Constituency               Party    Votes    %
 5 May 2005 (general)        Rossendale & Darwen         BNP     1736    3.9