Reform UK councillors from Gloucestershire have sparked controversy by announcing their intention to “camp out” in Clacton-on-Sea, nearly 180 miles away, to support Nigel Farage in the upcoming by-election he triggered.
Farage, who resigned his seat earlier this week amid parliamentary standards investigations regarding undisclosed donations, insists he has done “nothing wrong” and wants voters to judge his actions at the ballot box.
Reform UK’s Gloucestershire representatives have expressed unwavering support for their leader. “Every single councillor wants to go down there at least once or twice to show their support,” they stated.
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This by-election has seen major Westminster parties such as Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, and Restore Britain decide against fielding candidates. As a result, Farage’s main challenger is expected to be the comedy candidate Count Binface.
Local leaders have criticized Reform councillors for turning their backs on Gloucestershire duties. Stephen Davies, Conservative group leader at Gloucestershire County Council, remarked, “Reform is not about delivering services or making a difference locally; it is about saving Nigel Farage from explaining away a £5m donation. Conservatives will focus on working for local residents, not campaigning in Clacton.”
Liberal Democrat leader Lisa Spivey emphasized that councillors are elected to serve their local communities first. She expressed concern over Reform councillors prioritizing the by-election campaign, describing it as a diversionary tactic from the growing controversies around Farage and Reform UK.
“The challenges facing Gloucestershire communities require their attention, not a distracting political stunt,” Spivey added.
The Green Party called the by-election a “shameful waste of £275,000 of public money.” Group leader Beki Hoyland confirmed that Green councillors would remain focused on local duties rather than engaging in the Clacton campaign. Fellow Green councillor Gary Luff criticized Reform councillors for choosing a media spectacle over serving their constituents.
In contrast, Independent councillor Alastair Chambers announced support for comedian Count Binface in the by-election. “Democracy is about choice, and we look forward to bringing humor and enthusiasm to the campaign,” Chambers said.
Reform UK Gloucestershire leader Vernon Smith described the by-election as a “massive opportunity” and declared the group “energised, unified,” and eager to camp out and secure a historic victory for democratic fairness in the UK. “This is more than a seat; it’s a political revolution,” Smith stated.