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Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, described the contest as a “win-win situation” for himself. He explained that even if he does not secure the seat, his campaign will have succeeded in delivering a “bloody nose” to the Labour Party. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who stepped down with the intention of allowing his party colleague Andy Burnham to contest the seat and potentially launch a leadership campaign.
During an interview with BBC Radio Manchester, Kenyon outlined his perspective on the election. He stated that a victory would make him an MP, but if he lost, he would still have made his mark as “a working class lad who has given two fingers to the establishment.” A former Army reservist, Kenyon also addressed criticism related to an inappropriate comment he made about TV presenter Carol Vorderman. He referred to the remark as “squaddie humour,” saying it was “just… squaddie banter” intended to make light of the situation. Despite admitting that the comment was “disgusting,” he emphasized that it was meant as a crass joke shared with an ex-military colleague.
Kenyon, a self-employed plumber who recently won a council seat in Wigan, insisted that he is not feeling pressured by the national attention ahead of the by-election on 18 June, where fourteen candidates are standing. He described the scrutiny as “water off a duck’s back” and expressed pride in his decision to stand. Highlighting the issues that motivated him to enter politics in 2023, he criticized how concerns important to local residents have long been ignored. “We’ve been ignored for donkey’s years,” he said, explaining that rather than complain from the sidelines, he chose to actively participate in the democratic process.
Focusing on local priorities rather than international affairs, Kenyon pledged to campaign for a new hospital in Wigan, which he described as “not fit for purpose.” He also committed to opposing housing developments on green belt land and the establishment of houses of multiple occupation, which he believes strain local resources. When questioned about financing a new hospital, Kenyon suggested funds could be found if necessary, referring to government spending on accommodating asylum seekers at over £2 billion annually. On immigration, he advocated for “sensible immigration,” welcoming those who can contribute to the country. Emphasizing his connection with local constituents, he said, “I am one of them. I go to the same shops, kids go to the same schools, same football teams, I walk the same streets and go to the same pubs.
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