Reform UK Set to Name Former Top Tory as Treasury Spokesman
Reform UK is reportedly poised to appoint former Conservative MP Robert Jenrick as its chancellor-in-waiting, serving as the party's Treasury spokesman. This move comes despite some internal opposition within the party.
Key Appointments to Be Unveiled
Nigel Farage will reveal Jenrick and other senior appointments at a press conference on Tuesday. The aim is to demonstrate Reform UK's readiness for power and address criticisms about leadership inexperience.
Other notable appointments include:
- Zia Yusuf as home affairs spokesman
- Nadhim Zahawi for foreign policy
- Richard Tice overseeing business and energy, with plans to abandon net zero targets
Background and Political Shift
Robert Jenrick, a former Tory MP, defected to Reform UK in January. He stated that the Conservative party had 'betrayed its voters and members', highlighting his disillusionment with his former party.
These strategic appointments are intended to fend off criticism regarding Reform UK's perceived lack of experienced leadership. They are also seen as a crucial step to secure voter confidence ahead of the local council elections scheduled for May.
Nigel Farage has described the government's recent election U-turn as 'a victory for democracy', further positioning Reform UK as a viable alternative in the political landscape.
