Columnist Stephen Glover is urging the Conservative Party to reconsider its opposition to Nigel Farage and his Reform UK party, suggesting that a political realignment may be necessary to counter the Labour Party's ascendance.
In a recent commentary, Glover posits that the Conservative belief in an imminent recovery and the assumption that Farage will be brought down by scandals are likely unfounded. He notes that recent polls show Labour with a significant lead over both Reform UK and the Conservatives, with the latter remaining stagnant. Glover suggests that even if Reform UK were to collapse, the primary beneficiaries would likely be Labour, as former Reform supporters are more inclined to return to Labour than to the Conservatives.
Glover highlights two recent developments that suggest Farage and Reform UK may be more resilient than anticipated. Firstly, Farage and his deputy, Richard Tice, are suing the National Crime Agency (NCA) over allegations of leaking confidential information. Glover suggests that if the NCA is found to have leaked damaging information, Farage could portray himself and his party as victims of state overreach. Secondly, counter-terrorism police have reopened an inquiry into a firebombing at Farage's home in April 2025, which was initially treated as a burglary. The referral of the police's handling of the initial investigation to the Independent Office for Police Conduct raises the possibility of errors or overlooked evidence.
Should any link be proven between the firebombing and the recent murder of Reform luminary Ann Widdecombe, Farage could argue that his party has been subjected to a biased investigation. Glover suggests that these events could allow Reform UK to deflect scrutiny from its own alleged financial improprieties toward perceived state failings.
Glover criticizes Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for her stance against Farage, noting that she referred him to the parliamentary commissioner over an undeclared £5 million gift. He argues that the Conservative assumption of an imminent recovery and the hope that Farage will be undone by scandals are misplaced.
The columnist concludes by advocating for a pragmatic approach, suggesting that the Conservative Party and Reform UK may eventually need to form a coalition to prevent a prolonged Labour government. He emphasizes the need to prioritize the country's interests over narrow party loyalties.