First Minister John Swinney has justified his decision not to invite Reform UK to an upcoming summit on countering far-right extremism, arguing the meeting will focus on “shared values” and that Reform’s immigration policies raise “enormous concern.”
Reform UK, which denies being far-right, has criticized the summit as an “anti-democratic” effort to suppress its rising electoral support. The party, led by Nigel Farage, won 7% of the Scottish vote in July’s general election, with recent polls suggesting its support could now be as high as 17%.
Swinney stated that only parties represented in Holyrood were invited, though the Scottish Conservatives have also refused to attend, dismissing the event as an unnecessary “talking shop.” The First Minister announced the summit last month, urging political unity to “lock out” far-right influence in Scotland.
Reform UK has repeatedly distanced itself from far-right extremism, but its hardline stance on immigration has drawn criticism. The summit, set for Wednesday, aims to address growing concerns over far-right rhetoric in politics.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
