Shadow transport minister Greg Smith has contradicted Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch by suggesting a potential electoral pact with Reform UK, and refusing to rule out serving under Nigel Farage.
In an interview with Talk TV, Smith said there 'may well' be a point when right-of-centre parties need to 'play nicely' to prevent a left-wing government. He stressed it was too early for decisions but indicated that ahead of the 2029 general election, a deal might be necessary to avoid a Labour-led coalition.
Badenoch had earlier dismissed the idea of a tie-up, saying the UK must move away from 'politics as showbusiness'—a reference to Farage's appearance on I'm A Celebrity in 2023. She also criticised infighting within Reform, which has five MPs, questioning how they could unite the right if they cannot unite themselves.
When asked if he would serve in a Farage administration, Smith replied, 'It's far too early to say. I'm going all out for a Conservative win.'
