Andrew Rosindell, the MP for Romford, has defected from the Conservative Party to Reform UK, further escalating the political realignment ahead of the upcoming general election.
A Growing Exodus
Rosindell, a former shadow minister, stated the Conservative Party is “irreparably bound to the mistakes of previous governments” and lacks the willingness to take “meaningful accountability” for its decisions. His departure follows that of Robert Jenrick, who joined Reform UK on Thursday after being removed from the shadow cabinet by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who had accused him of planning to defect. Rosindell’s decision came after speaking with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage on Sunday evening.
With Rosindell’s move, Reform UK now counts seven Members of Parliament, including Danny Kruger, and represents the joint fifth largest party grouping in the House of Commons – equal with Sinn Fein, which does not participate in Westminster proceedings. Approximately 20 former Conservative MPs have now pledged allegiance to Reform UK, including former Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi.
Reasons for Defection
Rosindell cited the Labour government’s decision regarding the Chagos Islands, and what he described as the Conservative Party’s subsequent failure to challenge it, as a key factor in his decision. He stated both the government and opposition were “complicit in the surrender of this sovereign British territory to a foreign power.” Jenrick, in announcing his own defection, claimed the Tories had “broken” the country and “betrayed its voters.”
Farage welcomed Rosindell as “a great patriot” and a valuable addition to the party, while a Conservative source dismissed the move as “spring cleaning” orchestrated by Kemi Badenoch, suggesting Reform UK was “welcome” to him. Badenoch herself characterized the situation as a positive development for the Conservatives, labeling Jenrick “now Nigel Farage’s problem.”
What Happens Next?
Nigel Farage has indicated that Reform UK will not accept further defectors after the local elections on May 7th. However, Robert Jenrick suggested on BBC Breakfast that the party would remain open to further approaches from disaffected Conservative MPs, urging them to act quickly. It remains possible that further defections could occur before the deadline, potentially shifting the balance of power within the Commons. The Conservative Party is likely to focus on maintaining unity and differentiating itself from Reform UK, while Labour and the Liberal Democrats will likely attempt to capitalize on the Conservative Party’s internal divisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Andrew Rosindell defect to Reform UK?
Rosindell stated the Conservative Party was “irreparably bound to the mistakes of previous governments” and cited the handling of the Chagos Islands issue as a key reason for his decision.
How many MPs does Reform UK now have?
Reform UK now has seven MPs, including Andrew Rosindell, Robert Jenrick, and Danny Kruger.
What was the reaction from the Conservative Party?
A Conservative source dismissed Rosindell’s departure as part of Kemi Badenoch’s “spring cleaning” and suggested Reform UK was “welcome” to him. Badenoch herself called it a “good day” for the Conservatives.
As these political shifts continue, what impact will the growing presence of Reform UK have on the upcoming general election and the future direction of British politics?
