Overview
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has ruled out an electoral pact with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party ahead of the national election in the country on July 4. Farage had suggested a conversation with Sunak before the election.
Farage’s Offer and Sunak’s Response
Farage, previously associated with the Conservative party, extended an olive branch to Sunak in an interview with The Sun, seeking something in return for his past support. However, PM Sunak rejected the offer, emphasizing the choice between him and Keir Starmer for the next prime minister.
Background
- Farage refrained from running as a candidate for the Reform party.
- Farage hinted at past attempts by the Tories to lure him away, including a potential peerage offer.
- The Reform party is polling at around 12%, drawing support from former Conservative voters.
Political Implications
The Reform party’s decision on fielding candidates in marginal seats could impact the Conservatives’ defense of constituencies, as reported by The Guardian.
Reactions
British Security Minister Tom Tugendhat emphasized the importance of focusing on governance and dealing with citizens rather than electoral pacts.