A UKIP parliamentary candidate standing for a seat in Southampton says he will be questioned by police - over allegations he gave away free sausage rolls at a party event.

Kim Rose, who is standing in Southampton Itchen, claims he has been told to report to police over allegations of treating at an event which featured veteran snooker star Jimmy White.

According to Mr Rose, the event took place at a community centre in the Weston area of the city on February 21.

Food and entertainment cannot be provided by candidates to "corruptly influence" votes, according to Electoral Commission rules.

Mr Rose said the alleged police involvement was "absolutely ridiculous"and said he was contacted by Hampshire Constabulary's Economic Crime Unit.

Hampshire police have so far declined to comment. 

Its summary of electoral offences states: "A person is guilty of treating if... they directly or indirectly give or provide any food, drink, entertainment or provision to corruptly influence any voter to vote or refrain from voting.

"Treating requires a corrupt intent - it does not apply to ordinary hospitality."

UKIP leader Nigel Farage has now had his say, saying:

Mr Farage has now had his say on the allegations, saying: ''I think it's utter nonsense. There seems all sorts of cases in politics of people behaving badly and doing things wrong, abusing their positions.

''Having a few sausage rolls I don't really think counts as one of those.''