UKIP begin inquiry into 'altercation' involving Yorkshire MEP

An inquiry into the altercation between Yorkshire UKIP MEP Mike Hookem and colleague Steven Woolfe begins today.

The pair clashed at the European parliament on Thursday following a discussion about who would take on the leadership of the party, after which Mr Woolfe collapsed and was taken to hospital. He has since recovered.

Mr Hookem has denied punching his colleague.

The North West MEP Steven Woolfe has been discharged from hospital in Strasbourg after he collapsed at the European Parliament three days ago.

His aide told Granada Reports that Mr Woolfe is focused on continuing his recovery and will make no further comment today.

Meanwhile medical examinations found that bruising to Mr Woolfe's face was caused by more than just a fall or a seizure.

The UKIP MEP Mike Hookem, who was allegedly involved in an altercation with Mr Woolfe prior to his collapse, has since released a photo of his hands to reinforce the claim that he did not punch his colleague.

An internal UKIP probe is to investigate the incident, with some senior figures saying it should bar leadership front-runner Mr Woolfe from continuing in the race to head the party.

• Read more: Steven Woolfe 'was punched in the face', examination suggests