Another prominent Conservative figure has defected to Nigel Farage’s party, with ex- health secretary Maria Caulfield stating she signed up in recent weeks.
Further Setback for the Conservatives
Even though Caulfield is no longer an MP after being defeated in her Lewes to the Lib Dems last year, her move constitutes an additional challenge for the Conservatives, coming just a day after another switch by an incumbent Tory MP.
A series of senior Tory figures have defected over in the past few months, although as of now only a single remains in elected office.
Caulfield’s Remarks
“When you’re aligned with conservative values, then what lies ahead is the Reform Party. Britain is going to transform significantly.”
She added: “The same people thought that the EU exit would not happen are convinced that Reform UK will not happen. They should expect a shock.”
She confirmed that she joined four weeks back, mentioning that her partner had signed up several months earlier.
“I feel regret for the party. I could see that my principles remain, but the Tories has become less and less reflective of my beliefs.”
The defector insisted that the party failed the public over Brexit, particularly on legislation, spending, and border control. “We took back control, but we failed to act about it.”
On the topic of Reform UK, she stated: “Reform is about transforming how things work – things won’t improve unless they do it differently.”
What Lies Ahead
She indicated that there’s a chance she could try to return as an MP representing Reform UK, noting: “I’ll observe what transpires.”
Party’s Approach
Even though Reform is cautious of welcoming a large number of previous Conservative MPs, since it may be viewed as a retirement home for defeated MPs, the organization is conscious that it is without background in running the country.
Former ministers might bring that expertise.
Additional Switches
Another incumbent Tory MP, who previously served as an aide to ex-Prime Minister Johnson, just switched to the party and was appointed as the leader of “getting ready to govern”.
“The Conservative party is over. Over as a national party, and has ended as the main opposition to the left.”
Although switching sides, the representative took care to avoid attack the current party head, remarking that she had “carried out a impressive job in extremely challenging circumstances”.
He went on: “Personally, I believe she’s exhibited real courage and strength. So I’m not target her on a personal level. In my opinion whoever was in charge would have had a tough time over the recent months.”
“However, I differ with the tactics. In my opinion the party should have done is a far more bold emphasis of core Tory values.”
“Given the current situation, I’m not only rejecting the party, I’m actually fully supporting Nigel Farage and the party, who in my view have demonstrated over the recent months that they have grown into a real, serious party of opposition.”
