Parliamentary inquiry into use of Lee Rigby's name to promote political party

Lee Rigby

The Electoral Commission, which approved the use of murdered Middleton soldier Lee Rigby's name to promote a far-right political party on ballot papers, is facing a parliamentary inquiry.

Welsh MPs have also called for the head of the commission, Jenny Watson, to resign.

House of Commons Speaker John Bercow said he "wishes to see an independent inquiry, conducted as a matter of urgency".

The Electoral Commission said it has apologised to Fusilier Rigby's family and said the description will not be used in future but that it was too late for ballot papers to be changed in time for the vote on 22 May.

Electoral Commission chairwoman Jenny Watson said: "The Electoral Commission is deeply sorry for the offence that has been caused and I have apologised to Lee Rigby's family.

"We are particularly sorry at the pain that this will cause them, particularly since polling day falls on the first anniversary of Drummer Rigby's murder.

"The party description "Remember Lee Rigby" that was registered for use at the European Elections in May by Britain First should never have been permitted.

"We are sorry that the decision we made means that voters in Wales will now see the description on the ballot paper when they vote.

"We have looked carefully at what can be done to stop this from happening and we greatly regret that we have not found a way for the ballot papers to be changed."

Britain First will use the description "Remember Lee Rigby" on ballot papers in Wales for May's Euro elections.

Britain First, which describes itself as a "patriotic political party and street defence organisation", is fielding four candidates in Wales.

Lee's family is reported to be distraught.