Reform UK’s London mayoral candidate has rejected claims her party is “pro-hate” and said she plans to march for gay rights, while standing by controversial comments about face coverings in the capital.

In an exclusive interview with GB News’ Gloria De Piero, Laila Cunningham said those with racist views should “jog on” rather than support her campaign.

Mrs Cunningham addressed criticism of Reform UK and her own previous remarks about the burqa, saying her personal experiences have shaped her stance on a number of issues, including gay rights.

She told GB News: “I will always march for gay rights. People very close to me were arrested in Egypt for being gay and tortured in prison.

“My best friends are gay and I will always march for gay rights. It does not mean that I am pro trans rights, and I’ve always been very forthright about that.

“But I do want to get out the message in London that we’re really not about hate. We (Reform) are about, though, prioritising the people of this country. And if you love this country, no matter where you’re from, who you pray to, or who you choose to love, Reform is for you.”

Asked what her message would be to those holding vile or racist views, the Reform bigwig replied: “Oh. Jog on. What people have to understand is Reform is not about hate at all.

“And those who want to demonise or hate certain groups, it’s not what we’re about.”

WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW ABOVE

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