Reform UK Suspends Tim Montgomerie Over Criticism of Party Leadership

Reform UK has suspended prominent former Conservative activist Tim Montgomerie following his public criticism of senior party figures, including leader Nigel Farage and home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf. Montgomerie, who joined Reform UK 18 months ago, stated that he intends to appeal the suspension.

Montgomerie's criticisms surfaced in recent media appearances. In an interview with the BBC on Friday, he expressed frustration with Farage's perceived "aggrieved" tone following the Clacton by-election. On Monday, he told The Spectator podcast that Yusuf was not a "team player."

Reform UK stated that Montgomerie was suspended "in line with party rules" due to public criticism directed at the party. Sources indicated that Montgomerie was informed of his suspension prior to the broadcast of The Spectator podcast.

In the podcast interview, Montgomerie acknowledged Farage's media skills but suggested the leader needed better preparation when faced with questions about his personal finances, calling it an "Achilles heel." He also mentioned privately advising Farage to do more to establish Reform UK as a "credible party."

Montgomerie has also been critical of Yusuf on social media. In his interview with The Spectator, he characterized Yusuf as "loyal to Nigel as he has to be if he wants to succeed him" but added that Yusuf did not act as a "team player." Montgomerie recounted that Yusuf did not communicate with him for three months after Montgomerie assisted Conservative MP Robert Jenrick in defecting to Reform UK, accusing Yusuf of acting "like a child."

Following the news of his suspension, which emerged on the Guido Fawkes website, Montgomerie released a video statement on X. He affirmed his belief in the party's policies and membership, asserting that his public criticisms were aimed at making the party "better and stronger." He added, "If they want to kick me out, they are going to have to kick me out after an argument."

Montgomerie stated that Farage was unaware of the decision to suspend him. He recalled warning the Reform UK leader upon joining that he would be critical at times, drawing a parallel to his past critiques of the Conservative leadership during his tenure running the ConservativeHome website. Montgomerie also mentioned that Farage had previously stated there was "not enough internal debate inside Reform" and had welcomed him into the party on that basis.