Three former Conservative MPs have joined Reform UK, marking a significant setback for Kemi Badenoch and further complicating the current political landscape. Jonathan Gullis, the former Conservative deputy chairman, along with ex-Great Grimsby MP Lia Nici and former Bolton West MP Chris Green, announced their decisions to leave the party, reports BritPanorama.
All three MPs previously lost their seats to Labour in the last election, reinforcing the challenges facing the Conservative Party. Mr. Gullis, who represented Stoke-on-Trent North from 2019 until 2024, expressed disillusionment with his former party, stating he no longer recognises it after 18 years of membership.
He articulated his concerns, saying, “Over time, I have watched a party I once believed in lose touch with the people it was meant to serve. From failing to control both legal and illegal migration to pursuing a Net Zero agenda that has seen a rise in our household energy bills and put jobs in Stoke-on-Trent’s world-famous ceramics sector at risk, the Conservative Party has understandably lost the trust of the British people.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Green asserted that Reform has a clear understanding of the issues facing Britain, claiming it also has the solutions necessary to address them. The additions of Gullis, Nici, and Green to Reform UK follow the notable defection of sitting MP Danny Kruger last month, highlighting increasing turmoil within Conservative ranks as Nigel Farage’s party continues to attract disillusioned party members.
A source within Reform commented, “The Conservative Party is dead. Only Reform can beat Labour at the next election, as the polls show time and time again.” This statement underscores a pivotal moment for both Reform UK and the Conservative Party, with implications for future electoral dynamics.
The shifting allegiance of these former Tory officials signals a growing fracture within the party and poses questions about the future direction of British politics.
