Former Conservative minister Maria Caulfield has joined Nigel Farage’s Reform UK Party. This Tory defection comes after she lost her Lewes seat to the Liberal Democrats last year. Caulfield served nearly nine years as the constituency’s MP.
She said she joined Reform a month ago because the Conservative Party no longer reflected her beliefs. Reform confirmed her membership, making her the 15th former Tory MP to switch allegiance.
The move follows Danny Kruger’s defection earlier this week, marking the first sitting Tory MP to join Reform. Caulfield said the party needs experienced figures who understand the system and can contribute effectively. She described Reform as the natural future for Conservative-minded individuals.
“If you are Conservative right-minded, then the future is Reform. The country is going to change a lot,” she said. She added that those who doubted Brexit’s success would also underestimate Reform.
Caulfield expressed sadness over leaving the Conservative Party. She noted that she had not changed, but the party had shifted away from her principles. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch responded, emphasizing that the Conservative Party focuses on economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and delivering results for citizens. She criticized Reform for concentrating on internal party issues rather than public concerns.
A long-time Brexit supporter, Caulfield resigned as Tory vice chair in protest at Theresa May’s 2018 Chequers plan. She argued the proposal would not seize the opportunities offered by Brexit.
During her political career, Caulfield held multiple junior ministerial roles, including serving as a health minister. Her 2018 appointment as minister for women drew criticism from some women’s rights groups due to her stance against decriminalizing abortion.
This Tory defection highlights continuing shifts within UK politics as former Conservative MPs explore alternative platforms that align more closely with their policy views. Caulfield’s move to Reform signals ongoing realignment among Brexiteers dissatisfied with the party’s current direction.
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