The UK Independence Party (Ukip) has ignited a fresh political controversy with its proposed new party emblem, which critics allege bears a disturbing resemblance to a notorious Nazi symbol.
Design Details and Immediate Backlash
On Tuesday 13 January 2026, Ukip formally submitted the design to the Electoral Commission for approval. The logo incorporates a cross, a shield, and a spear, accompanied by the slogan 'the new right'. Almost immediately, observers and political opponents highlighted the central cross's similarity to the Nazi Iron Cross, a military decoration used by the Third Reich.
Detractors have labelled the imagery as 'sinister' and 'ever so slightly concerning', suggesting the design choices are either deliberately provocative or dangerously ignorant of historical connotations.
Ukip's Forceful Denial
Ukip has issued a robust and unequivocal denial of these accusations. A party spokesperson insisted the symbol is a Cross Pattée, a historic Christian emblem with a long lineage in British iconography.
The spokesperson pointed out that this same cross design features on the Victoria Cross, the UK's highest military award for valour, and is also present on the Crown of the monarch. The party condemned the criticism, stating the claims were 'offensive, ignorant and Christophobic', and amounted to an attack on Christian symbolism and religious bigotry.
Current Status and Public Display
Despite awaiting the final green light from the Electoral Commission, the new branding has already been seen in public. Ukip supporters have displayed the logo at recent party demonstrations, indicating the group's confidence in its adoption and a desire to rally under the new banner.
The situation places the Electoral Commission in a delicate position, as it must now rule on the acceptability of a design that sits at the volatile intersection of political messaging, historical memory, and religious symbolism.
Broader Implications for British Politics
This incident underscores the enduring power of political symbols and the intense scrutiny they attract. For Ukip, which has sought to redefine itself as 'the new right', the controversy represents a significant communications challenge, forcing it to defend its visual identity against charges of evoking one of history's darkest regimes.
The debate raises questions about the boundaries of political expression and the responsibility of parties to consider the historical weight carried by their chosen imagery, whether intended or not.
