DOUGLAS Carswell has rejected claims he blocked a knighthood for Nigel Farage.

Political journalist Isabel Oakshott clashed with the Clacton MP when they appeared on BBC’s Question Time.

She said: “I understand that Farage should have got a knighthood and I personally believe he deserved to get a knighthood.

“He was certainly put forward for a knighthood and it appeared that everything was going swimmingly, until you were asked to give your endorsement to that, and you failed to do so. Is that true?”

Mr Carswell, famous for his long-running fued with his former leader which has riven their party, looked uncomfortable and replied: “Absolutely not at all!”

The 45-year-old continued: “That’s simply not the case. I would love it if I had the power to award knighthoods. I wish it were. I’ve often called him sir.”

Mr Carswell confirmed to the Gazette that as a backbencher he does not decide who does or does not get peerages or knighthoods.

He added: “It's absurd to suggest otherwise.

"I understand why some in Ukip might be disappointed that Ukip has not had many such honours.

"It's daft to blame me - that's all I have to say on the matter.”

Media reported on Friday that UKIP’s three Lords had sought the honour be given to the former UKIP leader, which the Conservative government accepted, but support was needed from UKIP’s only MP.

One of those three UKIP Lords, Baron David Stevens of Ludgate told the Gazette: “Yes we do think Nigel should get a Knighthood. As regards Mr Carswell, better to ask him.”

Mark Stephenson, leader of Tendring Council’s opposition UKIP group, said he did not know whether or not Mr Carswell blocked the honour.

He added: “I would hope that he would endorse a knighthood for Farage.

"No one person has done more to change the face of politics and Farage with UKIP have most certainly earned their place in history delivering the Brexit vote.

"Knighthoods have been given for a lot less and the only reason Farage is not already a recipient is because of his political colour.”