By Martin Banks - 14th February 2008
A furious row has flared after an alleged "disgraceful" snub to the heir to the British throne.
It follows a speech on climate change to MEPs in parliament on Thursday by Prince Charles.
The royal visitor received a standing ovation - with the exception of UKIP leader Nigel Farage - after his speech on the role Europe can play in combating global warming.
Gary Titley, Labour's leader in parliament, slammed Farage's behavior, saying, “"As a British citizen I was deeply honoured to be present when the Prince of Wales made such an important speech to MEPs.
"I was embarrassed and disgusted when Mr Farage remained firmly seated during the lengthy standing ovation Prince Charles received.
"I had not realised Mr Farage's blind adherence to right wing politics involved disloyalty and discourtesy to the Royal Family. He should be thoroughly ashamed of himself and should apologise to the British people he represents."
Farage said he "utterly" refuted the accusation of disloyalty.
He told this website that he “was the first on their feet” when the prince entered the room but said he did not take part in the standing ovation afterwards because he could not support or approve of what he said.
Farage said, “It is deeply disappointing that Prince Charles has supported increased EU powers at the very time that the British government is denying us a referendum on the Lisbon treaty.
"Just who on earth is advising the Prince in such a way that he thinks that now is a good time to be coming to Brussels?
"It cannot be a coincidence that the UK government approved visit has come at such a sensitive time for the European debate. This is nothing more than a royal sideshow designed to divert us from far more important issues.”
In his speech, the Prince said,"The challenge of climate change is a challenge for everyone. It requires us to think and act across boundaries of nation, sector, language and culture, and to do so with speed and implacable determination.
"At the same time it provides unprecedented opportunities for human ingenuity and co-operation in developing new and sustainable industries and lifestyles."
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