ORGANISERS of Lewes Speakers Festival have said they are considering cancelling Katie Hopkins’ scheduled appearance at the event.

The controversial television personality and columnist has been booked to talk at the festival next month, a decision that has been met with outrage on social media.

Manager of the festival Marc Rattray admitted that pulling the plug on Hopkins’ talk was a possibility.

He said: “There is a chance that we will not be able to field her. We don’t want to upset all of Lewes.

“If it does go ahead, I’d want people to talk to her and have rational discussion. But it might not be worth it. I need to talk to people at the council.”

“I believe in rational discussion but that might not be shared by her critics who think she’s inciting hatred.”

Mr Rattray added that he and Lewes Speakers Festival were not “endorsing” Hopkins’ views by selecting her to speak at the event.

He said: “I wasn’t totally aware of all the things that go around her in her life. But she’s obviously provocative and says extreme things sometimes. She’s trying to get a reaction.”

Commenters on the Lewes Forum website attacked the decision, with NoToHate writing: “Hate Speaker Katie Hopkins has been invited to speak unchallenged at the Lewes Speakers Festival. Such invitations give legitimacy to a racist bigot.”

Old Malling added: “I’m all for free speech but Katie Hopkins just says provocative and offensive things to further her own career. I’m not supporting that under any circumstances.”

The Argus has contacted Hopkins' representatives for comment. 

Lewes Speakers Festival takes place on November 24, 25 and 26. For more information visit speakersfestivals.com