Mike Hookem 'formally reprimanded' over Steven Woolfe altercation

  • Video report by ITV News Deputy Political Editor Chris Ship

Ukip's Mike Hookem has been issued with a "formal reprimand" following an altercation with Steven Woolfe which left the former leadership hopeful in a life-threatening condition.

An internal investigation by Ukip into the scuffle at the European Parliament in Strasbourg earlier this month found it was "impossible" to determine what had actually happened because there were no eye witnesses.

Shortly after the fracas - which reportedly originated during a heated argument - Mr Woolfe collapsed in the parliament building and was kept on a neurological ward for a number of days.

Both men have since been reported to the French police by the European Parliament, while Mr Woolfe has also abandoned his bid to become party leader.

Commenting on the party investigation, Ukip chairman Paul Oakden described himself as "appalled" over the scuffle.

Owing to a number of mitigating factors, Mr Oakden announced the case would conclude with a formal reprimand for defence spokesman Mr Hookem.

"The decision of Mr Hookem to join Mr Woolfe in the ante room is the only action which I have the ability to consider for disciplinary action", Mr Oakden said.

"In the absence of eye witnesses, the true facts of what took place in the ante room itself are impossible to determine and neither man has made an official complaint to the party over the incident".

He added: "Had Mr Woolfe not collapsed later that day, we may never have known that the altercation took place at all".

Mr Oakden said that he had "strongly considered" suspending the pair.

However, Mr Hookem's apology to Mr Woolfe - coupled with his "excellent" past record - meant Mr Oakden felt a reprimand was sufficient.

Ukip chairman Paul Oakden said he was 'appalled' over the incident Credit: PA

Mr Oakden said "In light of this, a formal reprimand will be placed on Mr Hookem’s internal record, to be considered in the event of a reoccurrence of any infraction which might cause damage to the reputation of the party.

"Both I, and this investigation now consider this matter closed".

A new Ukip leader will be announced on November 28