Former Newcastle United owner and Tory donor Sir John Hall switches support to Reform UK
- Sir John Hall, a major Tory donor and ex-owner of Newcastle United, has decided to support Reform UK.
- Hall's involvement in funding Theresa May's 2017 election bid has caused a shift in his political allegiance.
- The move to Reform UK showcases changes in political alliances within the UK landscape.
In a surprising move, a prominent Conservative donor, Sir John Hall, has defected to Reform UK after giving more than £500,000 to the Conservative Party. The former Newcastle United owner publicly announced his support for Reform UK at an election rally in Durham alongside party leader Nigel Farage. Hall, a 91-year-old property developer, expressed dissatisfaction with Theresa May's handling of Brexit and domestic policies, leading to his decision to switch allegiance. Sir John Hall's significant contributions to the Conservative Party, including funding for the 2017 snap general election, contrast with his recent alignment with Reform UK. His company's notable projects, such as the MetroCentre shopping mall in Gateshead and the restoration of Wynyard Park in County Durham, highlight his influence in the region. The defection of high-profile figures like Hall and former Tory MP Lucy Allan to Reform UK underscores the party's growing momentum during the campaign. Reform UK, led by multi-millionaire chairman Richard Tice, has experienced a surge in support, with recent polls indicating 15% of voter preference, trailing behind the Conservatives at 23% and Labour at 39%. Tice, a former Tory donor who co-founded the Brexit Party before its transformation into Reform UK, has been instrumental in shaping the party's platform. The evolving political landscape, marked by defections and shifting alliances, reflects the dynamic nature of UK politics as parties vie for voter approval in the upcoming elections.