Ex Tory MP for Stratford-on-Avon switches sides

Former UK chancellor Nadhim Zahawi has joined Reform UK, becoming the most senior Conservative figure to defect to Nigel Farage’s party as it continues to poll strongly.

Zahawi announced the move at a press conference in London, saying the UK was “sick” and had entered a “dark and dangerous chapter.” He called on people from across politics to join Reform.

West Midlands political past

Zahawi is a familiar figure across the West Midlands, having served as Conservative MP for Stratford-on-Avon from 2010 until standing down at the 2024 general election.

During that period, he rose through government, holding roles including Education Secretary, Cabinet Office minister and, briefly, Chancellor in 2022.

Before entering Parliament, Zahawi built a successful business career as co-founder of the polling company YouGov.

Former allies critical

His defection drew criticism from former colleagues.

Gary Sambrook, who worked alongside Zahawi when he was a Conservative MP for Birmingham Northfield, said: “I don’t support this move. Ultimately, I believe it will come back to haunt him.”

Sambrook said switching parties at this stage risked undermining Zahawi’s own political legacy over the long term.

Pressure on right-wing politics

Zahawi was sacked as Conservative Party chair in 2023 following a tax dispute, which he later settled with HM Revenue and Customs.

His move adds to unease within Conservative ranks amid fears of being overtaken by Reform.

However, Reform is not without its own issues. Analysts warn that as more senior defectors arrive, Reform risks looking like the Conservative party in disguise, carrying across the very baggage its supporters are seeking to leave behind.