The British National Party is hoping for a four million euro windfall over ten years if it can patch together enough support to form a far-right grouping in the European Parliament.

The party, led by Nick Griffin, secured its biggest mainstream electoral victory so far when it clinched two seats in the Assembly during the European Elections. Each seat qualifies for funding of around 300,000 euros per year – but more funding is available for parliamentary factions. Group members are also entitled to vote in committees – seen by many as the powerhouses of the parliament. The anti-immigration BNP bans ethnic minorities from becoming members. Legal experts say the BNP could face court action over its constitution, which may be seen as discriminatory now that it has seats in the European Parliament.More about: European elections

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