Probe launched into poll leaflet

UKIP has launched an investigation into a controversial leaflet written by one of its Oldham candidates.

Joe Fitzpatrick, who is standing for election in St James ward, published a UKIP leaflet for Alexandra ward candidate Dave Carter featuring a seven-point plan on how to win an election.

The plan seemingly encourages voters to impersonate friends or relatives to get extra votes at polling stations, collect unused postal votes from family and friends and steal or swap postal votes.

Mr Fitzpatrick, who left the Labour party two years ago after the high-profile court case that led to former MP Phil Woolas being ousted from his Oldham East and Saddleworth seat, claims Labour and Lib Dems already carry out underhand voting tactics.

Oldham Council has reported the material to both police and the Electoral Commission and UKIP has distanced itself from the leaflet.

A UKIP spokesman said: “We have not, nor would, approve such literature and we are investigating the matter thoroughly followed by disciplinary process. The party does not endorse negative campaigning or inciting criminal behaviour.”