Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, stated on Monday that he is 'open-minded' about holding talks with Rupert Lowe of Restore Britain concerning a potential pact to "unite the Right" and challenge the Labour party. Farage revealed that he had initiated contact with Lowe following Lowe's suggestion of a deal between their two parties.
Lowe, formerly elected as a Reform MP for Great Yarmouth in the 2024 general election, left Reform last year amidst a dispute with Farage and other senior party figures. He subsequently founded Restore Britain, which has shown increasing electoral performance, notably securing a significant portion of the vote in the Makerfield by-election and the recent Greater Manchester mayor contest. In both instances, Reform and Restore collectively outpolled the Conservative and Liberal Democrat candidates.
This rising influence of Restore Britain has reportedly caused concern within Reform, with fears that it could split the right-wing vote in future elections, potentially aiding Labour's prospects. On Sunday, Lowe posted a video on social media suggesting that Reform and Restore could find a "common way forward" if Farage agreed to specific conditions, urging both leaders to set aside "personalities" and "past disagreements."
During a press conference, Farage acknowledged that while he had "no desire" to meet all items on Lowe's policy agenda, he had responded to the offer with an "open mind." He commented that political deals are typically discussed privately rather than through public videos. Farage confirmed he had reached out to Lowe on Sunday, proposing a call, but had not yet received a response, leaving him uncertain about the sincerity of the offer.
Lowe's stated terms for a deal included banning the burqa and halal meat, and ruling out the inclusion of former Conservative ministers in future cabinets. However, Farage asserted he would not dismiss key figures within his party, such as Robert Jenrick, his Treasury spokesman, or Suella Braverman, Reform's education spokesman, stating, "I don't ditch my friends. I don't ditch my allies."
Farage also addressed the acrimonious nature of Lowe's departure from Reform in March 2025, which involved claims of bullying and threatening behavior, although the Crown Prosecution Service found no criminal charges would be brought against Lowe. Farage characterized the falling out as a situation where "everyone fell out with Rupert Lowe" due to "screaming, the shouting, the threatening, the legal threats." He added that while an apology from Lowe would be welcome, he considered it unlikely.
Farage further articulated that Restore Britain, without the apparent capacity to win seats outside of Great Yarmouth, could "do us great harm" by dividing the right-wing vote. He suggested that potential Restore voters might be reconsidering their stance online due to this impact. Farage reiterated that while he responded to the offer with an "open mind" given the potential for a "greater good," he would not compromise on his alliances.
Lowe later responded on X, formerly Twitter, calling Farage a "liar" and disputing his account of communication. Lowe claimed Farage had messaged him at 10:30 a.m. stating "Will call later," but that no call had been received, asserting that Farage's statement about reaching out for a call was untrue, though he maintained the offer to Reform remained open.