Reform UK deputy leader Lee Anderson has ignited a political firestorm after making incendiary claims about Citizens Advice operating from buildings once associated with fascist leader Oswald Mosley.
The controversial MP made the allegations during a Reform UK campaign event in London, stating: "They've got offices in the old Mosley buildings in London." The remarks were immediately challenged by journalists and have been flatly denied by the charity organisation.
Charity Issues Swift Rebuttal
Citizens Advice responded forcefully to Anderson's claims, telling The Independent: "This is false. We do not have offices in the former Oswald Mosley buildings." The charity, which provides free, confidential advice on issues ranging from debt to housing, emphasised its commitment to helping people "resolve their problems" regardless of background.
The organisation operates from numerous locations across London, none of which have connections to the former British Union of Fascists leader who advocated for authoritarian rule in the 1930s.
Political Backlash Intensifies
Anderson's comments have drawn condemnation from across the political spectrum. Critics argue the comparison is particularly inflammatory given Mosley's notorious legacy of antisemitism and fascist sympathies.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Reform UK, which has been seeking to position itself as a legitimate political force under Nigel Farage's leadership. Political analysts suggest such incidents could undermine the party's attempts to present a more mainstream image.
This isn't the first time Anderson has courted controversy. The former Conservative MP defected to Reform UK earlier this year after being suspended from the Tory party for refusing to apologise for comments about London Mayor Sadiq Khan.
Broader Implications for Reform UK
The incident raises questions about Reform UK's messaging strategy as the party campaigns ahead of potential by-elections and looks toward the next general election. Opposition parties have seized on the remarks as evidence of what they describe as the party's problematic approach to political discourse.
As the story continues to develop, all eyes will be on how Reform UK leadership responds to the growing criticism and whether Anderson will clarify or retract his statements about the respected advice charity.
