David Cameron 'absolutely delighted' after UKIP MEP defects to Conservative Party

Amjad Bashir, a UKIP MEP has reportedly switched to the Conservative Party, slamming the UKIP leader Nigel Farage as being "like a dictator" in a stunning defection move.

Amjad Bashir was only elected as the UKIP MEP for Yorkshire and the Humber last year. Prior to joining the UKIP party in 2012, Bashir had been a member of the Conservative Party for 15 years.

His surprise defection comes after he was suspended by UKIP, who said Bashir was being investigated over "unanswered financial and employment questions" and and alleged "inference" with candidate selection processes.

Bashir dismissed the allegations, labelling them a "crude attempt" to tarnish his reputation.

Bashir wrote in the Mail on Sunday: "There is not a shred of truth in any of the claims but it has made me more convinced than ever that I made the right decision."

The rebel MEP hit out at Nigel Farage, commenting: "He runs the party like a dictator, employs people who are totally inappropriate for party positions and gets rid of anybody who stands in his way."

Mr Bashir also alleged that the he had experienced racism within the UKIP party and slammed the party as a "vanity project."

Prime Minister David Cameron has said he is "delighted" that Bashir is rejoining the party. Bashir reportedly met Mr Cameron on 23 January, informing him of his interest in discussing a switch back to the Conservative party.

Prior to entering politics full time, Amjad Bashir completed a degree in chemical engineering at the University of Bradford and ran two successful restaurants in Bradford and Manchester.