Nigel Farage has declined the Conservatives' challenge to debate Shire Hall’s finances amidst concerns over “misinformation” in Reform UK election propaganda leaflets. The Tory finance chief, Lynden Stowe, has called out the Reform UK leader after the party distributed “misleading” propaganda to voters, claiming the Tory-run council has “wasted vast amounts of taxpayer money, run up huge debts, and keeps cutting services.”
In a letter sent to postal voters in the county, Reform makes claims about the council’s management of taxpayer money and service cuts, including bin collections, which fall under the responsibility of district authorities in Gloucestershire.
During a meet and greet with candidates and supporters at the Clavell and Hind Brewery and Tap Room near Cheltenham, Mr. Farage was asked about the debate challenge but declined, citing scheduling constraints and alluding to using information sourced from freedom of information requests.
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In response, Cllr Stowe expressed disappointment in Mr. Farage’s unavailability, highlighting the misinformation spread by Reform and the absence of contextual understanding. Despite the claims made by Reform, Cllr Stowe emphasized that Gloucestershire has been managed prudently and possesses a good balance of reserves.
The upcoming elections for Gloucestershire County Council are slated for May 1, featuring a full list of candidates from major parties.