Former Tory Jonathan Gullis has joined Reform UK. The Kidsgrove mayor was Stoke-on-Trent North MP until his defeat at the last general election.
It marks the end of an 18-year association between Mr Gullis and the Consevative Party. It follows last month’s defection of former top Tory Daniel Jellyman to Reform UK.
Mr Gullis said: “Today I am pleased to be joining Reform UK. Leaving the Conservative Party after 18 years is not a decision I have taken lightly. Over time, I have watched a party I once believed in lose touch with the people it was meant to serve.
“From failing to control both legal and illegal migration to pursuing a net zero agenda that has seen a rise in our household energy bills and put jobs in Stoke-on-Trent’s world famous ceramics sector at risk, the Conservative Party has understandably lost the trust of the British people.
“As a country, we face serious and deep-rooted challenges, and what is required now are bold, radical ideas alongside the determination to deliver them. I believe only Reform UK has the vision and courage needed to restore pride in Britain and deliver real change, putting our country and our communities first. Nigel Farage has shown, consistently over many decades, the courage of his convictions, and it is that strength of leadership which will drive forward the bold and radical reforms our country so urgently needs.
“I look forward to meeting Reform UK members locally and across the country, getting out on the doorstep, and working together to earn voters’ trust. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, one we must not waste, to bring about the change our country truly needs under a Reform UK government.”
Reform UK city councillor Luke Shenton has welcomed Mr Gullis’ defection.
He said: “I and many others in Reform UK across Stoke-on-Trent are delighted to welcome Jonathan to Reform UK. Jonathan is absolutely right, the Conservative Party has betrayed voters in communities like Stoke-on-Trent. From open borders and net zero madness to punishing taxes on working people, the Tories have abandoned the values they once claimed to stand for.
“Jonathan’s decision to join us is a huge boost for Reform UK locally. The people of Stoke-on-Trent deserve better than this failing Labour government. Together, we’ll fight for the hardworking people of Stoke-on-Trent and build a real alternative to this tired political establishment.”
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