Bold claim: Reform UK is reshaping its leadership map with high-profile moves that could redefine its future. But here’s where it gets controversial: the party’s lineup now includes a potential future chancellor, a shift away from expectations, and a new cabinet-like framework that hints at broader ambitions.
Nigel Farage is preparing to nominate Robert Jenrick as Reform UK’s potential next chancellor, part of a string of prominent appointments announced on Tuesday. Jenrick, who defected from the Conservative Party after a cabinet role, would be a significant pick and would mark a notable departure from prior expectations that the position might go to former Reform leader Richard Tice.
In another change, Richard Tice will take charge of business, energy and industry, rather than the treasury role some had anticipated. Reports also indicate that Zia Yusuf, a former Reform chair, could become the party’s home affairs spokesperson, overseeing immigration policy.
Last year Yusuf unveiled Reform UK’s mass deportation plan, aiming to deport up to 650,000 people over five years—a policy that will likely spark debate and strong opinions across the political spectrum.
These roles, while not a formal shadow cabinet due to Reform UK’s current size (eight MPs), are intended to project depth beyond a single leader. Farage has suggested these appointments will counter criticism that the party is a “one-man band.” The approach signals an attempt to showcase a broader leadership team and distribute responsibility across key areas.
Tice is reportedly set to hold a combined business and energy portfolio that would place him in a position to shape climate policy, which he has described in provocative terms as “net stupid zero,” a label the Telegraph reports he uses to critique mainstream environmental policy.
Tice previously led the party for several years before Farage’s return to electoral campaigning. He had hinted that his experience in business might warrant a senior role, telling the BBC last year, “I’m not going to assume anything, but …”
Separately, Politico reported that Reform UK plans to inaugurate a new senior office—the fifth great office of state—alongside the existing Foreign Office, Home Office, Treasury, and No. 10.
At a rally in Romford on Monday, Farage addressed concerns about potential ego clashes within the leadership team. He framed the move as a deliberate step to broaden leadership and reduce criticism that the party centers on him alone, saying, “The moment to properly move away from the potential criticism that we’re a one-man band has been there now for a few weeks, and that’s why I’m doing this.” He added, “Am I concerned? No, I’m relieved actually. I’m relieved that other people are taking up these big areas, and from [reporter’s] perspective, on a given issue, you will know who to call.”
Jenrick—formerly housing secretary and immigration minister—jumped to Reform after a dismissal by Conservative leadership, Kemi Badenoch. He had previously denied being offered a Reform role before defecting but later appeared enthusiastic about joining the party as its Treasury spokesperson, stating he was “very happy” with the role as discussed on GB News.
For Reform UK, public polling remains a mixed signal. While the party has faced turmoil at No 10 and into this year, a new YouGov survey released on Tuesday shows Reform leading Labour by five points, a notable shift that could influence how voters perceive the party’s trajectory amid ongoing political upheaval.
