Nigel Farage has addressed the whispers about talks with James Evans, the recently ousted Tory from the Welsh Senedd. Rumour had it that the Reform UK leader was in discussions with Evans about a potential defection, but Farage denies it all. He says he hasn’t had a chat with Evans in years, squashing any notion of an imminent political alliance.
Laura Anne Jones, Reform UK’s sole representative in the Senedd, has expressed her high regard for Evans, calling him a “fantastic MS” who shares values that align with their party’s mission. Despite the gossip, she insists they have a tough vetting process and are selective about who joins their ranks.
On the flip side, traditional Tories like Tom Giffard and Lord Byron Davies are not impressed with the alleged talks. Giffard emphasised the party’s commitment to core Conservative values, suggesting those who veer off course might not belong. Davies criticised Evans and Jones as deceitful for “secret conversations.”
In response, Evans released a statement expressing his disappointment after the Conservatives stripped him of membership. He highlighted his long-standing concerns over the UK’s future and his unwillingness to conform to narratives he finds untruthful. Evans believes the country requires serious change and is considering his next political steps in light of these events.
As the Senedd elections loom, the drama continues to unfold, with lines drawn sharply between the Conservatives and the increasingly influential Reform UK. Keep a watchful eye on this one, folks!