Ashfield MP’s defection sparks Tory turmoil and fuels speculation of more desertions
In a dramatic twist to British politics, former Conservative deputy chairman Lee Anderson has made a headline-grabbing switch to Reform UK, following a controversial outburst against London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Anderson’s comments, suggesting Khan was influenced by “Islamists” and had “given away” the capital, led to his suspension from the Tory party, igniting a firestorm of criticism from fellow Conservatives, including Nusrat Ghani and Sir Sajid Javid.
Reform UK leader Richard Tice welcomed Anderson as the party’s inaugural MP, hailing him as a “champion of the Red Wall.” Anderson, unapologetic, stated, “I want my country back,” asserting that his views resonate with millions across the nation.
Embed from Getty ImagesThis high-profile defection has set alarm bells ringing for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with predictions of further Tory MPs jumping ship to the party founded by Nigel Farage. David Campbell Bannerman, Chair of the Conservative Democracy Organisation, bluntly declared, “Rishi is to blame directly for this,” urging immediate action to prevent political oblivion.
Anderson, who switched from Labour to Conservative before clinching the Ashfield seat in 2019, has decided against calling a by-election, citing the potential proximity of a general election. His move has sparked a mix of support and criticism, with some Tory MPs and influential groups laying the blame squarely on Sunak’s leadership.
Labour’s Pat McFadden seized the opportunity to highlight the disarray within the Conservative ranks, contrasting it with Labour’s focus on moving beyond years of Tory governance. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper remarked on Sunak’s dwindling authority, suggesting that Anderson’s defection is indicative of a leader unable to control his own party, let alone the country.
As the political landscape continues to shift, all eyes are on the Conservative Party’s response to this latest challenge and the potential ripple effects on the upcoming general election.
