Chris Mason: Both Tories and Labour feel the Reform heebie-jeebies

Chris Mason: Both Tories and Labour feel the Reform heebie-jeebies

Both the Labour and Conservative parties in Westminster currently find themselves unsettled, largely due to the disruptive influence of Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK. Recent major political developments, such as the stalled efforts of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Suella Braverman’s shift from one party to another, are connected by Reform’s growing ability to unsettle its political adversaries.

Labour, in particular, is grappling with a creeping fear that Reform might threaten their chances in the upcoming general election. This anxiety has fueled the intense scrutiny surrounding Andy Burnham and intensified debates about Sir Keir Starmer’s future leadership prospects. Discussions about potential successors have gained momentum largely because of concerns over Reform’s expanding influence.

On the Conservative side, multiple defections to Reform have caused noticeable upheaval, with four significant members switching allegiance in just the past month. Suella Braverman’s departure is especially noteworthy given her former role as Conservative Home Secretary and her prominence in recent Tory politics. Her move highlights Reform’s success in drawing away Conservative members, particularly from the party’s right wing, following defections by prominent figures such as Nadhim Zahawi, Robert Jenrick, and Andrew Rosindell in recent weeks.

At the same time, a separate Conservative faction outside the Commons has formed a new group called Prosper UK, featuring notable members like former Home Secretary Amber Rudd and ex-Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson. These individuals, often seen as less likely to join Reform, represent a more moderate or left-leaning strand within conservative politics and are pushing for their perspectives to regain prominence. This landscape leaves Kemi Badenoch’s position on the Tory right increasingly complex. Amidst these shifting dynamics, Nigel Farage continues to face questions about his coalition’s makeup and whether Reform can realistically establish itself as a credible alternative government in the near future—a goal Farage insists requires bringing in experienced politicians like Braverman. However, critics argue that this strategy undermines Reform’s image as a fresh insurgency unblemished by past governmental failures

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