Nigel Farage has come under criticism for his remarks suggesting that heterosexual couples are more likely to have stable relationships. The leader of Reform UK faced scrutiny following comments made by MP Danny Kruger, who recently defected to Farage’s party.
Kruger, the son of Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith, asserted at a right-wing conference in 2023 that heterosexual marriages were fundamental for a safe and successful society. When questioned about his stance on such views within the Reform party, Farage, who has been married twice, emphasized the importance of children having stable parental figures for a better upbringing.
Labour MP Nadia Whittome condemned Farage’s comments as “vile homophobia,” dismissing them as detached from reality and potentially divisive. A spokesperson from Stonewall emphasized the diversity of modern families and highlighted the significance of a nurturing environment for children’s well-being and development.
Statistics from the Office for National Statistics in 2023 revealed divorce rates per 1,000 married individuals, with slightly higher rates for women in same-sex civil partnerships compared to men. The data underscores the varying dynamics of relationships in contemporary society.
Following his defection, Kruger, known for his involvement in the New Conservatives group, will lead a new unit focused on preparing Reform for governance. In response to the defection, a Labour representative criticized Farage for aligning with former Conservative members, attributing it to a lack of a coherent plan for the country.
Kruger joins a list of former Tory MPs who have joined Farage’s ranks, including Nadine Dorries, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, and Sir Jake Berry. Farage’s spokesperson referenced a study from the National Library of Medicine supporting the unique roles of mothers and fathers in child development.
