Nigel Farage is expanding Reform UK’s campaign beyond immigration to focus on law and order this summer, with a pledge to halve crime at a cost of £17bn. The proposal has drawn positive headlines despite questions over its costings, as Reform is now seen as the best party on handling crime.
Farage’s timing proved fortunate, with the Daily Mail’s front page featuring his warning of “societal collapse”. His backing of protests outside an asylum hotel in Epping, Essex, and dismissal of arrests as “a few bad eggs” might have drawn criticism from other parties in normal times.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner warned at a cabinet meeting that Britain could face a repeat of last year’s riots unless the government addresses public concerns, saying immigration is having “a profound impact on society”. Downing Street’s release of her remarks suggests the government is keen to appear in control amid fears of further civil unrest.
Labour also moved to counter Reform’s monopoly on illegal migration crackdowns, announcing a deal with food delivery companies to tackle hotspots of illegal working. “This is a pull factor for migrants crossing the Channel,” a government insider admitted.
However, Reform has faced difficulties on other issues. Deputy leader Richard Tice caused confusion by suggesting the party would scrap renewable energy contracts, before partially backtracking. Labour warned that 1 million jobs could be at risk. Business figures have struggled to engage with the party, noting that policy appears to be whatever Farage decides on the day.
Reform’s pledge to raise the personal tax allowance to £20,000 at a cost of up to £80bn remains unexplained, with critics pointing to “fantasy economics”. One minister noted, “Farage is a vibe, it’s hard to attack a vibe.” With Reform ahead in polls, the party poses a significant challenge to both Labour and the Conservatives ahead of next May’s local elections.
