There have been fears from some Eurosceptics that the Brexit Party could split the Brexit vote in some Conservative constituencies, leading potentially to a Labour-run Government. In recent days, Mr Farage has denied a pact could be arranged unless Mr Johnson abandons his EU exit deal. But now, the former Ukip donor Mr Banks has revealed exactly what Mr Farage is considering.

Mr Banks argues that Mr Farage will stand candidates down - on the condition realistic changes are made to Mr Johnson's Brexit deal.

He told the Daily Mail: "A compromise has been proposed which would see Nigel ordering those of his candidates who simply cannot win to stand aside – but only on condition that various entirely realistic changes are made to the deal which Boris negotiated with Brussels.