Farage's new army already going AWOL

Reform’s local election successes on May 1 were hailed by Nigel Farage as proof that his was a serious party with a high-functioning machine behind it.

“I’ve seen the calibre of people improve, we’ve professionalised the way we operate,” he said. But a few days on, the truth is beginning to emerge – as newly-elected Reform councillors begin to quit, wasting tens of thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ money.

In Nottinghamshire, where Reform took power, Newark councillor Des Clarke has stepped down, with a representative telling the local paper he was “not in a position to represent the people of Newark West in the way they deserve, while at the same time continuing his career in social care, about which he is very passionate.” It is thought that a by-election to replace him will cost at least £10,000. More could follow.

In Warwickshire, Luke Shingler may also have to stand down as Galley Common’s new councillor. Shingler, who works for the RAF, was listed on ballot papers as a Reform candidate, then subsequently declared he would serve as an independent. Nevertheless, armed forces rules say that employees are not permitted to stand for elected office without permission.

There are rumours too that in Durham, two council employees who became Reform councillors are on the point of quitting their new roles, having learned that you cannot represent a council and work for it. Others across the country, who stood as ‘paper’ candidates and did no campaigning but still won, are grappling with unexpected new responsibilities.

So much for professionalising the way Reform operates!