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Lord Ashdown sparked controversy today by attacking “Tory Brexit brownshirts” amid a row over Britain’s immigration policy.

The former Liberal Democrat leader made the comparison with Nazi thugs as Prime Minister Theresa May was criticised by Right wingers for pouring cold water on a points-based system to control immigration as championed by the Leave campaign.

“The Tory Brexit brownshirts are stirring,” he tweeted.

“Betrayal is the word most likely to be heard in the run up to the Tory Conference.”

But he was swiftly condemned for the remark.

Braintree Conservative MP James Cleverly responded: “So I’m a Nazi now am I? @paddyashdown”

Sutton and Cheam Conservative MP Paul Scully added: “It’s really irresponsible language.

“I find it really disappointing.”

Fellow Brexit Conservative MP Peter Bone dismissed the peer’s comment as “nonsense”.

He also questioned whether a points-based system would properly control the levels of immigration to the UK.

After the backlash on Twitter, Lord Ashdown added: “Brownshirt-gate”. Heavens! Even allowing for these over-heated times, do we really have to lose contact with the concept of the metaphor?”