Tories Offer Meeting with Ex Neo-Nazi Candidate Joshua Bonehill-Paine

Joshua Bonehill‑Paine, the former neo‑Nazi activist who was sentenced to 18 months in prison in 2023 for his role in organising extremist rallies, has been selected to stand as a candidate for a newly created seat on Somerset Council in the 2027 local elections. The decision was announced by the Conservative Party, which has earmarked the new ward—covering the eastern outskirts of Taunton—as a key target for regaining council control.

Bonehill‑Paine’s candidacy follows a period of public scrutiny and legal proceedings that culminated in his conviction for conspiracy to facilitate extremist activity. The council’s selection committee cited his “strong local ties” and “commitment to community development” as reasons for his nomination, despite the controversy surrounding his past. The party’s spokesperson noted that the candidate will undergo a rigorous vetting process and will be required to adhere to the council’s code of conduct.

The move has drawn criticism from civil‑society groups and anti‑extremism advocates, who argue that allowing a former extremist to run for public office risks normalising extremist ideology. The council will hold a series of public consultations in the months ahead, and the outcome of the 2027 election will likely be closely watched as a barometer of the region’s political climate.