Nigel Farage to announce Robert Jenrick as Chancellor-in-waiting
Nigel Farage is poised to announce Robert Jenrick as his Chancellor-in-waiting, alongside a series of other senior appointments within Reform UK, reports BritPanorama.
Farage, the leader of Reform UK, plans to unveil these key appointments on February 17 as part of a strategy to showcase the party’s readiness for governance. This move follows Jenrick’s recent departure from the Conservative Party and his subsequent defection to Reform last month.
At a rally in Romford, Farage remarked, “I think the moment to properly move away from the potential criticism that we’re a one-man band has been there now for a few weeks, and that’s why I’m doing [these appointments].” He expressed relief at having others assume significant roles, emphasising the clarity it brings for journalists who cover the party.
In addition to Jenrick, Zia Yusuf, the current party policy chief, is expected to oversee home affairs, which includes managing policies related to crime and immigration. Furthermore, former Tory member Nadhim Zahawi is anticipated to take a key foreign policy position, having joined Reform just days before Jenrick.
Richard Tice, Farage’s long-time deputy, is on track to receive a combined brief for business and energy as part of this restructuring. However, because Reform is not the official opposition party, it lacks the authority to appoint a formal shadow cabinet.
These appointments follow Jenrick’s ousting from the Conservative Party by its leader, Kemi Badenoch, in January. Badenoch cited “irrefutable proof” of his intent to join Farage’s party as the reason for his dismissal. Jenrick has denied being assured any particular position within Reform’s strategy but stated he was “pleased to be a part in any way I can do” upon his entry.
His impending role as Chancellor-in-waiting aligns with Reform’s objectives, though it may spark internal disputes among party members who aspire to the same title, notably Yusuf and Tice. Farage had previously noted the need for experienced figures within cabinet roles to understand the shortcomings of the current system.
Having served as an immigration minister and exchequer secretary under Conservative Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak and Theresa May, Jenrick’s appointment may bolster Farage’s efforts to counter claims regarding his party’s qualifications for governance.
Ultimately, this reshuffle signals Reform UK’s aim to position itself as a credible option in UK politics, particularly as it navigates the challenges ahead.
As parties continue to grapple with leadership and policy challenges, the unfolding of Reform UK’s new structure could signify a shift in the political landscape, particularly regarding the role of experience in contested spaces.
