An ex-senior Conservative member, who previously criticized the quality of Reform UK candidates, has switched allegiance to Reform.
Jonathan Gullis has joined Nigel Farage’s party, despite a previous conflict with Richard Tice, the party’s former leader. Tensions escalated when Tice responded to Gullis’ remarks by hinting at possessing compromising personal information about him.
Gullis had previously ridiculed Reform, highlighting the inclusion of candidates with controversial backgrounds, such as a convicted animal abuser and a fortune-teller selling spells on OnlyFans. He questioned the vetting process of Reform’s candidates and expressed concerns about their ability to represent constituents effectively.
However, Gullis has now announced his decision to join Reform UK, citing his disillusionment with the Conservative Party after 18 years. He criticized the party for failing to address migration issues, implementing energy policies leading to increased household bills, and jeopardizing jobs in Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramics sector.
Gullis stated, “Leaving the Conservative Party was a difficult choice for me. I have observed a disconnect between the party and the people it serves over time.” He highlighted various policy failures that, in his view, have eroded trust in the Conservative Party among the British public.