Rupert Lowe Launches Restore Britain Party After Reform UK Suspension
Independent Member of Parliament Rupert Lowe has announced the formal launch of a new political party, Restore Britain, following his fractious exit from Reform UK. The party was officially unveiled on Friday evening, marking a significant development in British politics.
From Movement to Formal Political Party
Restore Britain initially emerged as a political movement after Mr Lowe's departure from Reform UK. It is now set to operate as an umbrella organisation, partnering with locally-based political groups across the country. Mr Lowe plans to contest his Great Yarmouth constituency under the local party Great Yarmouth First, which will align with Restore Britain.
Advisory Roles and Future Involvement
Senior Conservative figures Susan Hall and Sir Gavin Williamson were previously involved in an advisory capacity when Restore Britain was a movement. However, it remains unclear what Mr Lowe's decision to establish it as a formal political party means for their ongoing involvement. Both have been contacted for comment regarding their potential roles moving forward.
Background of Suspension from Reform UK
Mr Lowe was suspended by Reform UK in March 2025 after being accused of threatening violence towards party chairman Zia Yusuf. At the time, Scotland Yard confirmed that a complaint of verbal threats related to an alleged incident in December 2024 was being assessed by officers.
In a statement, Reform UK said it had received evidence of serious bullying and derogatory remarks made about women in the MP's offices, with two separate staffers reported to have made allegations. Mr Lowe denied these claims, describing the statement as vexatious and suggesting the police complaint was filed after he asked reasonable questions of Reform's leadership.
Internal Conflicts and Leaked Messages
Mr Lowe later stated that Nigel Farage must never become prime minister after the Reform UK leader allegedly called his behaviour disgusting and contemptible in leaked private messages. In a WhatsApp conversation with a member of Mr Lowe's staff, reported by the BBC, Mr Farage accused Mr Lowe of damaging the party just before elections.
Mr Farage also revealed that a King's Counsel had been appointed by Reform UK to investigate the bullying complaints made by two women working for Mr Lowe. This internal scrutiny added to the tensions leading to Mr Lowe's suspension and subsequent departure.
Strategic Positioning and Local Alliances
With the launch of Restore Britain, Mr Lowe aims to create a network of local political groups, emphasising grassroots engagement. The partnership with Great Yarmouth First highlights a strategy to maintain his constituency presence while expanding influence nationally through the new party's umbrella structure.
