Sacked Reform Candidate Issues Public Apology for Racist Remarks
Bob Lomas, a 70-year-old former soldier and ex-Reform UK candidate, has finally apologised for racist comments that led to his dismissal from the party 18 months ago. His change of heart came after participating in Channel 4's reality show Handcuffed, where he was physically chained to Chris Preddie, a black youth worker and OBE recipient.
A Transformative Television Experience
On the programme, hosted by Jonathan Ross, Lomas was shackled to Preddie as part of a competition for a £100,000 prize. Initially defensive, Lomas argued in the episode that "everything's racist if you want it to be," referencing a riot in London that appalled him. However, Preddie, who received an OBE at age 25 for his youth work, expressed disgust at Lomas's terminology and shared his personal background.
Preddie explained how his father died due to gang involvement, leading him into a life of crime without positive role models. He credited a youth worker with saving his life, stating he would likely be "dead or in prison" otherwise. Moved by this story, Lomas admitted his views were misguided and praised Preddie's community efforts.
Public Apology and Political Fallout
Following the show, Lomas posted a video apology on Instagram, stating: "I can't change what I said, I can only apologise for saying it. I vehemently apologise for using those words. I made a bloody big mistake and I am bloody sorry." He was originally standing as the Reform candidate for Barnsley North when party leader Nigel Farage dropped him and two others over social media remarks. Farage later claimed on Question Time that he "wouldn't want anything to do with them," amid widespread condemnation of racism within the party.
The episode of Handcuffed airing on Monday will show Preddie researching Lomas online and their emotional discussions, highlighting the impact of personal stories in challenging prejudiced views.
