Fareham Constituents Voice Mixed Reactions to Braella Braverman's Reform UK Defection
The political landscape in Fareham has been shaken this week following the surprise defection of local MP Suella Braverman from the Conservative Party to Reform UK. Constituents in this Hampshire market town have expressed a wide range of opinions about their representative's dramatic political shift, revealing deep divisions within the community.
Local Business Owners Express Disappointment and Support
For Jamie Jewell, owner of the Golden Lion pub in Fareham town centre, Braverman's defection represents the culmination of months of frustration. "I've sent emails saying 'we need support here' and never received a response. Not even an acknowledgment," Jewell revealed, describing how the MP had visited his establishment in January last year with promises of assistance regarding a protected tree damaging the property, only to become unresponsive afterwards.
Jewell's disillusionment stands in stark contrast to the perspective of Roy Gillingham, proprietor of Fareham Wine Cellar. "I'm not surprised at all by her decision," Gillingham stated. "She's very much more in tune with what Reform is doing." The wine seller, who has regularly supplied Braverman with beverages for Conservative party meetings, emphasised that "she stands good and hard for local people. That's more important than what party she belongs to."
Constituents Divided on Political Loyalty and Representation
Among Fareham residents, opinions about Braverman's move vary significantly. Graham Cull, a 68-year-old lifelong Conservative voter, expressed disappointment while acknowledging the political context. "I can understand why she's doing it. The Conservatives are in disarray at the moment," he conceded.
Meanwhile, Sue Cox described the defection as "quite alarming" and suggested it represented a "gut reaction" to Braverman's dissatisfaction with her former party. "But is the alternative the right alternative?" Cox questioned, voicing concerns about political stability. "That is the biggest worry, if you vote somebody in who's an unknown. And let's face it, Nigel Farage changes his tune like the weather, doesn't he?"
Political Colleagues Express Betrayal and Disappointment
The defection has caused significant consternation among Braverman's former Conservative colleagues. Paul Holmes, a neighbouring Conservative MP, revealed that his working relationship with Braverman had deteriorated since the 2017 general election. "I wouldn't pick up the phone to Suella," Holmes stated bluntly, criticising the manner of her departure. "She hadn't told any of her colleagues, her staff, her constituency association, which I think is highly disrespectful and discourteous."
Local Conservative leadership echoed these sentiments. Simon Martin, the council leader, described the move as "understandably disappointing, especially after very recently providing assurances to me that this would not happen." He added that many felt "let down not only with the defection, but also that no prior indication was given to the Conservative group of her intentions."
Calls for Byelection and Historical Comparisons
Some constituents believe Braverman's party switch should trigger a fresh electoral contest. Dave Acheson, a 37-year-old non-Conservative voter, described the defection as "nakedly self-interested" and predictable. "I just thought it's another rat leaving the sinking ship," he remarked, adding that he "despises her and everything she stands for, and the way she uses demonisation to get ahead in politics."
Acheson argued strongly for constitutional change, stating "there should be a rule that says if you change parties, there should be another byelection." His brother Michael supported this position with historical precedent, noting that "Churchill famously switched parties and had to stand for a byelection." To which Dave responded pointedly: "Suella Braverman is no Churchill."
The political future of Fareham and Waterlooville remains uncertain as constituents grapple with their representative's unexpected political realignment. With Braverman having represented the area since 2015 and winning the newly formed constituency in 2024, her defection marks a significant moment in the political history of this traditional Conservative stronghold.
