Dame Andrea Jenkyns joins Reform UK amid political turmoil

In a significant political shift, former Tory minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns has made her move to join Reform UK, a party led by Nigel Farage, as announced during a press conference. The announcement comes as she has been selected to stand as the party's candidate for the newly established position of Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. This development unfolds after Ms. Jenkyns, who previously served in the government under Liz Truss, decided to leave the Conservative Party, citing her belief that it is 'sinking' and possibly 'beyond salvage'. Her decision to depart was influenced by various political issues, including Labour's approach to the governance of the Chagos Islands and changes in inheritance tax policies affecting farmers. Additionally, the recent cut to the winter fuel allowance for pensioners was among her concerns that highlighted the current crisis she perceives in the country. During the press conference, Farage shared that Reform UK's membership has reached a milestone of 100,000, indicating growing support for the party amidst dissatisfaction with the current government. Dame Andrea expressed her sentiments about joining 'the party of the brave' while emphasizing the necessity for patriotic voices to represent the people. Her shift reflects a broader disenchantment within the Conservative Party, particularly for those adhering to Thatcherite values. In the backdrop of her announcement, official migration statistics were revealed, showing a 20% decline in net migration to the UK. However, the previous year’s figures were adjusted upwards, creating a more complex narrative around immigration that Farage criticized as 'horrendous'. These migration-related concerns, along with rising costs associated with the asylum system, were pointed out as political liabilities for the Tory government, fueling sentiments for reform among party switchers like Jenkyns. Jenkyns, who famously defeated Ed Balls in the 2015 elections, stated her commitment to doing what's right for the country, suggesting her departure from the Conservative Party is part of a greater effort to stand for her beliefs. She stated that 'true friends will stay loyal,' a remark that hints at potential future tensions within the Conservative ranks following her departure and highlights the fractured nature of the party. In leaving the Conservatives, she also reflected on the loss of many true conservatives in recent election cycles, signaling a shift in the political landscape towards parties that align more closely with her emerging ideology.