The Reform party conference in Birmingham experienced a day of notable events, including the appearance of French National Rally politician Jordan Bardella, who addressed the attendees.
Bardella's delivery was described as reminiscent of Inspector Clouseau, with the politician himself humorously acknowledging his accent. "Zurry aboot my acsent," he told the crowd, eliciting a strong, positive reaction from at least one attendee who shouted, "We love it!" Bardella's speech included a message of solidarity with Britain, encouraging pride in the Union Jack and patriotism. He and Reform party leader Nigel Farage signed a memorandum of understanding concerning potential future cooperation on issues such as taking back small-boat refugees from French beaches.
The conference was not without its disruptions. Security was reportedly heightened, and protesters were ejected from the venue. A bomb scare also contributed to delays in the proceedings, which started an hour behind schedule. Party chairman Lee Anderson commented on potential "casualties," possibly alluding to political scandals, which the party seemed to navigate without significantly denting conference enthusiasm.
Nigel Farage, making a noticeable appearance in a fuchsia tie and electric-blue suit, engaged with the crowd, even bopping along to "Come On Eileen" as he moved through the venue. Farage appeared to relish the disruptions, laughing off a heckler and suggesting the protester was likely a sociology student.
Bardella, considered a potential future prime minister in France, appeared on stage following a speech by Reform's home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf. The mood reportedly shifted with Bardella's entrance, moving from what was perceived as inauthentic to more engaging.
The day's events also saw two close aides to Farage resign over a funding scandal, though this did not appear to dampen the spirit of the activists present. Farage also struck a note of warning towards judges and civil servants, suggesting they could face dismissal if they obstructed a future Reform government.