Nigel Farage has named a former Conservative as the leader of Reform UK in Wales and introduced another dismissed Conservative as a recent addition to the party.
The new leader of Reform in Wales, Dan Thomas, was a former Tory councilor in London who switched to Reform last year. Additionally, James Evans, a former high-ranking Welsh Conservative, was unveiled as the latest member to join Reform after being let go last month due to suspicions of defecting to Reform.
Welsh Labour criticized Reform Wales for being “Tory-led” and expressed disapproval that a former London councilor was dictating to Wales. Plaid Cymru labeled Farage’s party as “rehashed Tories.”
During a press conference in Newport, Farage addressed accusations that Reform was turning into a “Tory group” and emphasized his belief in forgiveness by welcoming former Conservatives into the party.
When questioned about the number of Tories within Reform, Farage stated that as long as 5-8% of local election candidates are former Tories, it is acceptable. He emphasized their openness to individuals from various political backgrounds and emphasized the importance of forgiveness.
Dan Thomas, a Welsh native and former leader of Barnet Council in London, shared his decision to return to Wales after a successful career in financial services, highlighting the lack of opportunities in Wales compared to London.
James Evans, the current Senedd member for Brecon and Radnorshire, acknowledged previously criticizing Reform UK but believes the party is addressing the realities of Britain and Wales being in disarray. He also criticized the media for being influenced by left-wing activists.
In a previous development, Evans was expelled from the Tories over suspicions of defecting to Reform. Farage clarified that he had not been in contact with Evans for a couple of years. Reform gained its second Senedd member through Evans’ defection, following Laura Anne Jones’ move in July.
Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru criticized the influx of former Conservative politicians into Reform UK, labeling the party as being “Tory-led” and controlled by Farage. Plaid Cymru’s leader described the new leader of Reform UK in Wales as Farage’s “puppet.”
Rhun ap Iorwerth from Plaid Cymru characterized Reform UK as a refuge for ex-Tories and criticized the party for lacking originality.
