Several Reform UK councillors from Gloucestershire have sparked controversy by announcing plans to step away from their local responsibilities to “camp out” in Clacton-on-Sea, 180 miles away, in order to support Nigel Farage’s by-election campaign. Farage recently resigned his parliamentary seat amid allegations concerning undisclosed donations, which he insists are politically motivated and denies any wrongdoing.
The Gloucestershire Reform UK group has expressed full support for their leader, with each councillor eager to visit Clacton at least once or twice to campaign. This move has drawn criticism from other local political leaders who argue that the councillors should prioritize their commitment to Gloucestershire residents.
Stephen Davies, leader of the Conservative group at Gloucestershire County Council, accused Reform UK of neglecting local service delivery in favor of protecting Farage from scrutiny over a £5 million donation. Conservatives stated they would remain focused on their local responsibilities rather than campaigning in Clacton.
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Lisa Spivey, the Liberal Democrat leader at Shire Hall, echoed these concerns, emphasizing that elected officials must put local constituents first. She described the by-election as an unnecessary distraction designed to deflect from controversies surrounding Farage and Reform UK. Spivey expressed disappointment that Gloucestershire’s Reform councillors were diverting attention away from pressing local issues.
The Green Party also condemned the by-election, labeling it a “shameful waste” of £275,000 public funds. Group leader Beki Hoyland confirmed Green councillors would remain fully committed to Gloucestershire residents rather than engage in what she called a media circus. Fellow Green councillor Gary Luff criticized Reform UK for prioritizing Farage’s defense over the needs of their voters, sarcastically noting that they are defending their leader “against a man dressed as a bin.”
Adding to the unusual political dynamics, Independent councillor Alastair Chambers announced he would support the comedy candidate Count Binface, who plans to stand in the by-election. Chambers underlined the importance of voter choice and promised to inject humor and energy into the campaign trail.
In response, Vernon Smith, leader of Reform UK Gloucestershire, framed the by-election as a pivotal moment for their political movement. He described the campaign as a “massive opportunity” and a referendum on democratic fairness in the UK. Smith expressed excitement and unity among Reform councillors, pledging to mobilize immediately and transform what he called an establishment “pile-on” into a catalyst for political change.