STORY
In a significant blow to the Conservative Party, former Cabinet Minister Jake Berry MP has today announced his defection to Reform UK. The move, revealed in a statement this morning, sees the prominent figure, who previously served as Minister without Portfolio and Chairman of the Conservative Party, cross the political floor, citing profound disillusionment with the direction of the opposition. Mr Berry, a long-standing Member of Parliament for Rossendale and Darwen, stated his decision was driven by a belief that the Conservative Party had “lost its way” and was no longer representing the values he held dear. He highlighted concerns over high taxation, what he described as a failure to control immigration and a perceived drift from conservative principles.
“After much soul-searching, I have concluded that the Conservative Party, which I have served faithfully for many years, is no longer the vehicle for the change our country desperately needs,” Mr Berry said. “The promises made to the British people, particularly on issues of sovereignty and economic common sense, have been broken. Reform UK offers the bold, clear vision and genuine commitment to delivering for the people that is now sorely lacking in Westminster.”
The defection has caused further concern through the Conservative ranks, with fears that the current leader Kemi Badenoch is failing to make sufficient progress. A spokesperson for the party expressed disappointment, stating, “Jake has been a valued colleague, and we are naturally saddened by his decision. However, the Conservative government remains focused on delivering for the British people, tackling inflation and growing the economy.” Some Conservative MPs privately suggested the move was opportunistic, given Reform UK’s recent rise in opinion polls.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage warmly welcomed Mr Berry, describing him as a “principled individual who understands the true challenges facing Britain.” Farage added, “Jake’s decision is a testament to the growing momentum behind Reform UK. We are building a serious movement of common-sense patriots who believe in a brighter future for our nation, free from the failures of the establishment.”
The defection adds further pressure on the Conservative government, already trailing in the polls ahead of the next general election. Political analysts suggest Mr Berry’s departure could embolden other disaffected Conservative MPs and further legitimise Reform UK as a viable alternative for right-leaning voters. His move marks one of the most high-profile defections in recent British political history and is likely to intensify the debate over the future direction of Conservative politics in the UK.