In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves through Westminster, former Conservative MP Natalie Elphicke has dramatically defected to Labour - delivering a brutal blow to Rishi Sunak's leadership just months before the general election.
A Stunning Political U-Turn
The Dover MP, known for her hardline stance on immigration and Brexit, crossed the floor in the House of Commons on Wednesday morning. In a scathing resignation letter, Elphicke accused Sunak of failing to deliver on housing and border security while praising Keir Starmer's 'changed Labour Party'.
Tory Fury Over 'Opportunistic' Move
Conservative MPs reacted with fury, branding Elphicke's defection as 'utterly shameless'. Critics pointed to her previous attacks on Labour's immigration policies and her vocal support for Boris Johnson during Partygate. 'This isn't about principles - it's about saving her skin,' one Tory insider fumed.
Labour's Coup Amid Election Momentum
Sir Keir Starmer hailed the defection as proof that Labour has reclaimed the political centre ground. The move comes as polls show Labour maintaining a 20-point lead over the Conservatives. Political analysts suggest more Tory MPs could follow suit as election day looms.
Elphicke's switch marks the second high-profile Conservative defection to Labour this year, following Christian Wakeford's move in 2022. The timing couldn't be worse for Sunak, who faces mounting pressure over small boat crossings and a stalling economy.
