Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, has indicated he is open to discussions with Rupert Lowe of Restore Britain about a potential pact to unify the right-wing political movement. Farage revealed that he had initiated contact with Lowe following Lowe's suggestion of a deal between their two rival parties.
Lowe, who was initially elected to Parliament as a Reform MP in the 2024 general election, left the party last year amid a dispute with Farage and other senior Reform figures. He subsequently founded Restore Britain, which has seen notable performance in recent by-elections and mayoral contests, in some instances outpolling the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties.
The growing influence of Restore Britain has reportedly raised concerns within Reform UK, with fears that it could divide the right-wing vote in the upcoming general election, potentially benefiting the Labour Party. Lowe had previously proposed a path forward for both parties, contingent on Farage agreeing to specific terms and setting aside personal and past disagreements.
During a press conference, Farage responded to questions about a potential alliance by stating that while he had "no desire" to incorporate some of Lowe's policy proposals, he had approached Lowe's offer with an "open mind." He noted that his outreach was a private communication, contrasting with Lowe's public social media video.
"I did actually reach out back yesterday to him," Farage said. "I did say, 'look, should we have a call?' I haven't heard back yet, so I don't know what the sincerity of this is."
Lowe's stated terms for a deal included policies such as banning the burqa and halal meat, and ruling out former Conservative ministers from future Cabinets. However, Farage asserted that he would not remove key figures like Robert Jenrick, his Treasury spokesman, or Suella Braverman, Reform's education spokesman, from his team.
"I don't ditch my friends. I don't ditch my allies, whether that's Suella Braverman or Posh George (Cottrell), you know I do not ditch people because somebody else wants me to," Farage stated.
Lowe's departure from Reform in March 2025 was marked by accusations of bullying and threatening behavior. The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that Lowe would not face criminal charges.
Farage commented on the past dispute, suggesting that an apology from Lowe would be welcome but unlikely. He described the situation as a broad fallout with Lowe, citing "screaming, the shouting, the threatening, the legal threats" as reasons for wider disaffection.
"If you have to have to speak to people or make arrangements with people that you've previously fallen out with, if there is a greater good to be had from that, then I'm not closing my mind to it," Farage said. "Sorry would be nice, but I would have thought unlikely to be forthcoming."
Farage also expressed concern that Restore, without significant electoral prospects outside of a limited area, could negatively impact Reform's chances. He suggested that potential Restore voters might be reconsidering the electoral implications of their support. He reiterated his willingness to consider a deal with an open mind, but emphasized his commitment to his allies.
Following Farage's remarks, Lowe posted on X (formerly Twitter), calling Farage a "liar" and disputing his account of their communication. Lowe claimed that Farage's assertion of asking for a call was untrue and that he had only received a message stating "Will call later," followed by no actual call. Despite the public disagreement, Lowe indicated that the offer for discussions remained open.