Nigel Farage has announced the latest Tory defection in harsh blow to Kemi Badenoch.
Just weeks after Kemi Badenoch became leader of the Conservative Party, former Tory minister Andrea Jenkyns has jumped the “sinking” ship to join Reform UK.
Speaking at a press conference this morning, Farage said: “Now we said that when we hit 100,000 members the lucky winner would go out for a pint for Lee Anderson. Now I fear that was deeply inaccurate. The use of the singular strikes me as being very unlikely with Lee.
“And by sheer coincidence the 100,000th member happens to be a former Conservative Member of Parliament.
“Who would believe that? Isn’t that extraordinary that it’s worked out that way?
After Farage dealt the shocking blow to Badenoch’s party, Andrea Jenkyns took to the stage to explain why she has joined Reform.
“Reform UK is surging and membership is soaring. We will be ready to challenge the tired two-party system and we will deliver the fresh start this country so desperately needs,” she said.
Although leaving the Tories was “not an easy decision”, she said that she “fought to the bitter end” at the latest General Election, which marked a historic loss for the Conservatives.
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She added: “But the truth is undeniable: the ship is sinking and perhaps, sadly, beyond salvage but enough is enough. It is time to step aboard a movement with vision and purpose and the courage to fight for Britain’s future.”