In a major political shakeup, Tory defector joins Reform UK as Sir Jake Berry becomes the latest high-profile Conservative to abandon the party. The former cabinet minister and party chairman announced his move in a scathing op-ed, declaring “Old Westminster politics has failed.”
The Tory defector joins Reform UK after 25 years as a Conservative, including 14 as an MP. Berry, who lost his Rossendale and Darwen seat in July, accused both Labour and the Tories of breaking Britain. He criticized soaring taxes, uncontrolled immigration, and a benefits system he claims attracts “the world’s poor.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage welcomed Berry, calling him a “principled conservative.” With this Tory defector, Reform UK has now poached four ex-Tory MPs in two weeks, including former Welsh Secretary Sir David Jones.
The Conservatives fired back, mocking Reform’s policies. A Tory spokesman said Berry joined a “high spend, high tax party” that supports lifting the two-child benefit cap and nationalizing industries. They insisted the renewed Conservative leadership remains committed to lower taxes and welfare reform.
Berry’s defection highlights Reform’s growing influence. As another Tory defector joins Reform UK, the party won five seats in July’s election and continues attracting disgruntled right-wing voters. Polls suggest it could overtake the Tories as the main opposition if current trends continue.
Analysts say Berry’s move signals deeper Conservative fractures. As a former Johnson ally and Truss appointee, his exit suggests the Tory right is increasingly disillusioned. With Labour dominating Westminster, Reform aims to position itself as the true voice of fiscal conservatism and border control.
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