Reform UK is poised to announce a defection from the Labour Party early next week, with deputy leader Richard Tice indicating the reveal will 'probably' happen on Tuesday.
A Wave of Defections Continues
This anticipated move follows a dramatic week for Nigel Farage's party, which welcomed two significant Conservative figures. Former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi and then ex-Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick joined Reform's ranks.
Jenrick's switch was particularly abrupt; he was sacked by Tory leader Kemi Badenoch after she was allegedly informed of his plans. He subsequently appeared at a press conference with Farage, who then promised a 'well-known Labour figure' would follow.
Tice Confirms the Timeline
Speaking on Times Radio, Tice appeared to confirm the plan. 'You'll see an interesting surprise I think early next week from the other side of the political spectrum,' he stated, pinpointing the unveiling for 'probably on Tuesday'.
Tice refused to specify whether the individual is a sitting MP, councillor, or former politician. He also reiterated Farage's warning of a deadline for further defections set for May 7, the day of the local elections, describing Reform as a 'turbo-charged fast car' gearing up for the polls.
Labour's Dismissive Response and Internal Tensions
Senior Labour figures have publicly sought to downplay the significance of the impending defection. Chancellor Rachel Reeves suggested taking Farage's claims 'with a pinch of salt,' while Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said he was 'not worried'.
However, the news is likely to cause concern within Labour headquarters. The defection comes amid a separate political row, with Tice accusing the government of acting like an 'authoritarian dictatorship' for allowing delays to local elections in around 30 councils undergoing reorganisation—delays Sir Keir Starmer is expected to approve.
The political landscape continues to shift rapidly, with Reform UK positioning itself as a disruptive force ahead of the crucial May elections.
