Reform UK names defectors to top roles and pledges radical economic and migration shake-up
Nigel Farage has unveiled a dramatic new “shadow cabinet”, placing two former Conservative ministers at the heart of Reform UK’s frontbench and setting out plans for sweeping economic and migration changes.
Speaking in London, the Reform UK leader outlined what he described as a bold restructuring of government, including a proposed “super economics and business department” inspired by Germany’s post-war model. He said the new structure would prioritise economic growth and competitiveness, with a target of lifting growth to four per cent of GDP.
According to the Evening Standard, two senior Tory defectors now occupy prominent roles in the reshuffle. Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister under the last Conservative government and current MP for Newark, will serve as Reform UK’s Treasury spokesman. Suella Braverman, who previously held the post of Home Secretary, takes on the role of education, skills and equalities spokeswoman.
Zia Yusuf has been appointed home affairs spokesman, while Richard Tice becomes spokesman for business, trade and energy. Tice will also lead the proposed “super department” aimed at driving economic expansion.
The announcement immediately drew sharp criticism from Labour. Anna Turley, chair of the Labour Party, accused Farage of assembling a team of “failed Tories” who, she said, had already spent more than 3,000 days in government, causing damage to the country.
Farage pressed ahead regardless, framing his new frontbench as a break from what he portrayed as economic stagnation under Labour. Jenrick told supporters that Reform UK would focus on cutting taxes, reducing welfare spending and challenging Chancellor Rachel Reeves and the current Labour administration. He described the Government’s economic approach as a “wrecking ball” and promised an alternative strategy aimed at lowering bills and restoring competitiveness.
Jenrick also highlighted youth unemployment, arguing that Britain’s figures compare unfavourably with other parts of Europe. He said the party would set out detailed economic proposals the following day, centred on tax reductions, a “sensible energy policy” and the creation of jobs across the country.
The party’s migration stance proved equally uncompromising. Yusuf pledged to cut both legal and illegal migration. He said Reform UK would consider withdrawing from international treaties if they prevented large-scale deportations.
Addressing supporters, Yusuf claimed that more people had arrived on Britain’s shores in the past seven years than stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. He argued that new arrivals had received accommodation, meals, healthcare and other services at significant public expense, asserting that the cost ran into tens of billions of pounds each year.
The inclusion of two former Conservatives, alongside figures who have not yet been elected as MPs, prompted further criticism from political rivals. Nevertheless, Farage presented the appointments as evidence that Reform UK is preparing itself for government and building what he called a credible alternative to the established parties.
The party also stated that, if it wins the next general election, it would repeal the Equality Act on its first day in office.
Standing alongside his newly appointed spokespeople, Farage projected confidence. He insisted that Reform UK’s reshaped frontbench reflects a determination to pursue rapid economic reform and tighter border controls.
The unveiling marks a significant moment for the party as it seeks to expand its influence and position itself as a serious contender in British politics. Whether the controversial appointments and sweeping pledges will broaden its appeal or deepen divisions remains to be seen.