Reform UK has been criticized as a destination for former Conservative ministers facing controversies, with another ex-Tory MP recently joining the party. Suella Braverman, a former Home Secretary, is the latest addition to Nigel Farage’s party, bringing the total number of sitting MPs in Reform UK to eight. This follows the move of Nadhim Zahawi, who compared Nigel Farage to Hitler’s top propagandist, to Reform earlier in January.
In a recent development, Robert Jenrick, a serving MP, announced his defection to Reform UK after being sacked by Kemi Badenoch, the Tory leader, for allegedly planning to defect. Other notable figures who have switched to Reform include Dame Andrea Jenkyns, former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, and Lee Anderson. Manuela Perteghella, a Lib Dem MP, referred to Reform as a sanctuary for disgraced former Conservative ministers.
Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman switched to Reform UK on January 26, 2026, becoming the latest sitting MP to align with Nigel Farage’s party. Known for her controversial statements on homelessness, migrants, and other issues, Braverman’s move was anticipated due to her hardline stances.
Robert Jenrick defected to Reform UK on January 15, 2026, expressing concerns about illegal migration and the state of the country. His departure followed his dismissal by Kemi Badenoch over suspicions of defection plans. Meanwhile, Nadhim Zahawi, a former Tory chairman, also joined Reform after facing tax-related controversies and breaching the ministerial code.
Reform UK has seen several defections from former Tory members, with individuals like Lee Anderson, Andrea Jenkyns, and Nadine Dorries making the switch. The party’s growth in Parliament includes new members like Danny Kruger, who proclaimed the end of the Conservative Party and pledged to prepare Reform for governance.
Graham Simpson became Reform’s first MSP in Scotland in August 2025, highlighting the party’s appeal beyond England. Other notable defectors include Maria Caulfield, Lia Nici, and Chris Green, who all cited disillusionment with the Conservative Party. This trend of defections underscores a shift in political alignments within the UK.