I’m a Tory MP who admires Nigel Farage – however I will not be part of Reform UK | Politics | News | EUROtoday

During my time in Parliament, I’ve been energetic in championing the causes which can be necessary to Reform UK voters. I’ve campaigned to cut back immigration, defend youngsters from excessive intercourse training, defend ladies from trans rights activism, crack down on ‘woke’ college programs and defend our manufacturing industries.

But regardless of having a lot in frequent with Reform UK, I cannot be becoming a member of the Party. Here’s why:

Firstly, I’m a real conservative. I consider in sturdy households, sturdy neighbourhoods and a powerful nation. I consider those that work exhausting ought to see their reward, and that the first function of Government is to defend the British folks. It’s not me who needs to be leaving the Conservative Party.

Secondly, a whole bunch of individuals – together with many who’ve grow to be expensive mates – have given generously of their time and sources to assist me marketing campaign for and maintain my seat as a Conservative MP. I gained’t betray their belief.

And thirdly, whereas I share the frustration of Reform voters, I can’t agree with the Party’s fantasy tax pledges that may exempt thousands and thousands from paying tax altogether. These are completely unaffordable proposals that may decimate pensions and public providers. I’m all for decreasing the tax burden on working folks however Reform’s insurance policies would go away a big part of society with none pores and skin within the recreation, not contributing a penny in the direction of the NHS, faculties, the armed forces and different providers that all of us depend on. If you don’t pay tax, it is simple to assist limitless authorities spending of different folks’s cash.

I do not know if I’ll be re-elected on July 4th. That’s as much as the folks of Penistone and Stocksbridge, the place Reform can’t win, and the place each vote for Reform makes a Labour MP extra doubtless. I hope they’ll recognise that I’ve been one of many strongest and bravest voices in Westminster on the problems that Reform voters – upset conservatives – care about. If the Labour Party is to win the election, we’ll want brave MPs in opposition, standing up towards Starmer’s excessive plans to tax pensions and double down on Net Zero. And if I’m returned to Parliament, I need to play my half in rebuilding the Conservative Party, serving to to remodel it right into a patriotic occasion for all ages.

I’ve each respect for Nigel Farage; he has an necessary function in shaking up the institution (and boy, does it want it). But as for me, I’ll take my probabilities as a Conservative.