The man in charge of Dundee’s cross-party working group on Brexit has said Nigel Farage is not welcome in the city.
The Brexit Party leader revealed on Thursday he will visit the Caird Hall on September 12.
The event is one of a series of rallies being held across the UK but the only taking taking place in Scotland.
SNP Dundee East End councillor Will Dawson, who chairs the council’s Brexit working group, said: “I have to admit I’m a little confused as to why he would choose Dundee for his visit.
“Not only are we Yes city but the EU election also proved that we are very much a European, anti-Brexit city.
“Just what he thinks he will achieve by visiting Dundee is beyond me.
“Judging by the comments on social media I’m sure that many will turn out to ‘welcome’ him.”
Mr Dawson added: “His Brexit rhetoric simply isn’t welcome in Scotland as we know for a fact that this will damage not only the economy of Dundee but the economy of Scotland and ultimately, the UK.
“Even the Office for Budget Responsibility has said Brexit could cause a deep recession and a £30 billion economic hit.
“The public now needs to focus on the facts not the vitriol against Europe that comes from the Brexit party.
“We were lied to during the referendum and we are still being lied to from Farage and others who hope to lead this country in that all will be coming up roses after Brexit.
“It’s simply not the case. Probably better if Farage and company are sent homewards to think again.”
A Brexit Party spokesman admitted Dundee had been chosen as a venue because there were few suitable options available north of the border on September 12, although they had also looked at venues in Glasgow and Kelso.
He said: “We are going all around the country and there are areas that are stronger for Brexit than others.
“But we are there to engage, not just talk to our own people.”
He added: “We do feel of those people who believe in Scottish independence there are many who recognise there is no point in independence without independence in Europe.
“Otherwise it is just sticking two fingers up at London.”
There appears little appetite for the Brexit Party leader’s social visit on social media.
Dundonian Mark Dorward posted: “You’re a bit ambitious in trying fill the Caird Hall in Dundee, maybe try and book the the phone Box in Castle Street instead.”
you're a bit ambitious in trying fill the Caird Hall in #Dundee, maybe try and book the the phone Box in Castle Street instead?
— Mark Dorward (@b45her71) July 19, 2019
John Lindsay added: “Farage thrives on publicity. I know it won’t happen but best that the people of Dundee just ignore him completely.
“He will have picked Dundee especially because he knows there will be loud protests against him.”
Farage thrives on publicity. I know it won't happen but best that the people of Dundee just ignore him completely. He will have picked Dundee especially because he knows there will be loud protests against him. https://t.co/OzJpAUlC1s
— John Lindsay ??????? (@John_Arab) July 19, 2019
Council leader John Alexander tweeted and said he hoped the event is moved to a smaller venue, such as a portable toilet.
Hmmm… I hope they have to move to a smaller venue because of a lack of uptake. Like a portaloo. https://t.co/zh98OgWywT
— Cllr John Alexander (@CllrAlexander) July 18, 2019
