Conservative MPs Worried About Party Loyalty
Conservative MPs are becoming increasingly paranoid about losing party activists and members to Reform UK after prominent former Tory MP Lee Anderson defected to the right-wing party this week.
Lee Anderson’s Defection to Reform UK
Lee Anderson, a former Conservative deputy party chairman, is now Reform’s only MP sitting in the House of Commons. Last month he was suspended from the Tory Party for suggesting London mayor Sadiq Khan was being controlled by “Islamists.” On Monday, Anderson announced his decision to join Reform after receiving significant support from people across the country.
Concerns Among Tory MPs
Paranoia has set in amongst Tory MPs, with many noticing a decrease in communication within their WhatsApp group chats. There is a sense of impending doom around the next election, particularly with the growing threat of Reform.
Impact of Anderson’s Defection
While Conservative MPs are less worried about further defections, there is a growing concern that Anderson’s decision could influence party loyalty and lead to activists and members deserting. Some fear that Tory voters may opt for Reform instead.
Reform UK’s Strategy
Reform UK aims to exploit the growing discontent among the Tory faithful in target constituencies. Despite facing an uphill battle, the party is preparing for an expected by-election in Blackpool South, where it hopes to make a significant impact.