Former Conservative Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries has stated she has no regrets about joining the Reform Party, asserting her commitment to colleagues when they face pressure. Dorries made these remarks in response to questions from media outlets, including Laura Kuenssberg's Sunday television show.
Dorries addressed recent challenges faced by Reform and its leader, Nigel Farage, including media scrutiny over £72 million in donations and an ITV documentary that uncovered controversial comments from some party personnel. While not defending the remarks, Dorries suggested that similar material could be found in any political organization and questioned ITV's focus, citing its past platforms for figures like Phillip Schofield and Russell Brand.
She expressed a stronger determination to support Farage's stance on returning illegal migrants and legal immigrants who break the law. Dorries drew a parallel between uncontrolled migration and societal unrest, referencing events in French cities and riots in Milan, Brussels, and Lisbon. She argued that erosion of national identity and uncontrolled migration drains government resources and could turn a country into a "tinder box."
Having served 25 years with the Conservative Party, Dorries claimed she was unable to speak as openly about immigration as she can now with Reform. She feels liberated to express beliefs she believes are shared by most British people, including a desire to leave the European Convention on Human Rights, a goal supported by Farage.
Dorries contrasted Farage's consistency with what she described as self-interested politicians in Labour and the Conservatives. She dismissed recent polling data showing a narrow Conservative lead over Reform as a sign of the establishment attempting to undermine her new party. She also mentioned security concerns faced by Reform members, including the alleged murder of their justice spokeswoman, Ann Widdecombe, and a Reform councillor receiving a parcel containing suspected toxic asbestos.
Despite criticism over Farage's security funding and legal action against the National Crime Agency for alleged leaks of banking details, Dorries stated that Farage would emerge stronger from these difficulties, asserting that Reform is a party with staying power.
In a separate segment, Dorries critiqued the television show "The Celebrity Traitors," describing it as a disappointment and criticizing the cast's humor. She also addressed a government initiative to fine passengers for playing loud music or videos on trains, suggesting that all train carriages should be designated as quiet carriages.
Dorries also commented on an appearance by Green Party leader Zack Polanski, criticizing his stance on the Green Party's motion labeling "Zionism is racism" and his declaration that "no state has a right to exist," which she contrasted with the situation in Ukraine.