Kemi Badenoch has suggested that Reform UK set a May deadline for Tory defections because they fear no one else will join them. The Conservative leader’s comments follow the defection of former frontbencher Robert Jenrick, who crossed the floor hours after being sacked as shadow justice secretary.
Nigel Farage and his head of policy, Zia Yusuf, indicated that May 7 would be a cut-off point for admitting Conservative defectors. The date coincides with crucial local elections. Asked if she would be on high alert for potential defectors, Badenoch questioned why Reform had set the deadline, suggesting they might be worried about attracting no further members.
Badenoch described the defection talk as a distraction from serious national issues. She reiterated her commitment to integrity and loyalty within the Conservative Party, stating she would not tolerate behaviour focused on self-interest.
