Jon Trickett, Labour’s Shadow Minister without Portfolio, commenting on reports that Nigel Farage has said he will open “back channels” to discuss a post-election pact with the Tories said:

“Once again we see the Tories and UKIP preparing to do a deal.

"UKIP are a party of Tory people and Tory money and the parties have a shared policy agenda.

"Together, Tories and UKIP would increase NHS privatisation, give millionaires another tax cut and make extreme and risky spending cuts. Neither than claim to stand for working people.

"After weeks of overtures to each other’s voters, it’s now time both parties came clear on what the terms of their deal will be so hardworking families know for themselves what they’re planning.”