BNP seeks to re-register with Electoral Commission for May polls

The beleaguered British National Party (BNP) is seeking permission to field candidates at May's elections, after being struck off the register of recognised parties by the Electoral Commission.

The far-right outfit - which was removed by the watchdog for failing to submit the required annual notification and £25 fee - has applied to be restored to the list of approved parties.

Its list of official party "statements" - descriptions which can appear on some ballot papers - have been published on the Commission's website for comment until February 8 after which the Commission will consider the application.

They include "Because the English have rights too".

The BNP- which in 2009 had more than 50 council seats and two MEPs - has been in steep decline for several years and fielded only eight candidates at the 2015 general election, down from 338 in 2010.

It blamed a"clerical error" for the de-registration and insisted it would contest the mayoral election in London, the Greater London Assembly and some local elections once re-registered.