Reform UK's Rise

Reform UK's leader, Richard Tice, firmly refutes accusations of financial inducements for Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson to switch allegiance to his party. In an exclusive conversation with Sky News, Tice unequivocally declares, "There has been no offer of money or cash to any Conservative MP, without exception."

Dismissing Sunday Times reports, Tice asserts that Anderson is using the threat of defection to Reform UK as a negotiation tactic for the Tory deputy chairmanship. He underscores the discontent within the Tory party over issues such as mass immigration and the inability to control boat crossings.

Providing context, Tice discusses conversations with ministers, former ministers, and MPs, positioning Reform UK to the right of the Conservative Party. The party advocates for "net zero immigration," asserting that the number of people legally allowed to come to the UK should equal the number emigrating.

Despite recent by-election results showing only marginal support for Reform UK, concerns within the Conservative Party persist. Some fear that the party, led by Tice, could capitalize on growing public dissatisfaction over record levels of legal migration and Channel crossings.

Challenging remarks made by cabinet minister Laura Trott, who expressed nonchalance about the potential threat posed by Reform UK in the next general election, Tice warns that recent polling indicates rising support for his party. He asserts, "We're ready for an April or May election, we think that's coming, and we will stand in every single seat across England, Scotland, and Wales."