Farage praised as 'man of deep principle' by MEPs

Jane Collins and Mike Hookem claimed Mr Farage’s long campaign for a departure from the European Union had given the British people their voice back.

Some Ukip supporters have suggested Mr Farage should be given a peerage in the aftermath of last month’s referendum devision to leave the EU.

In a joint statement, Ms Collins and Mr Hookem said: “Over the years, and through a constant hail of criticism and personal attack, Nigel Farage has taken the theory of Brexit from something which used to be debated in hushed tones, and made it into a political reality.

“Nigel’s fight for British independence has not come without significant personal cost, including giving up his business, forgoing time with his young family, and even having to cope with threats to his safety.”

“In our opinion, he should be credited and celebrated as a man of deep principle; who tenaciously stuck by his principles when others would have given up, and for that alone, he deserves official recognition.”

Deputy leader Paul Nuttall, a North West MEP, has emerged as the early favourite to succeed Mr Farage.

The party’s only MP, Douglas Carswell, who has repeatedly clashed with Mr Farage, has ruled himself out of the job while another senior figure, Suzanne Evans, cannot currently run as she is suspended by the party but has confirmed she would like to be a candidate.

The Liberal Democrats have urged Mr Farage to step down from his position as an MEP.

Foreign affairs spokesman Tom Brake said: “Nigel Farage has spent years attacking the so called Brussels gravy train while doing his best to cash in on EU taxpayer-funded expenses.

“This rank hypocrisy has to end.”

Mr Farage resigned as leader last year only to later change his mind.