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Council Resignations Spark By-Election and Party Defections

11/2/2025

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Parsonage Resigns Council

Christine Parsonage has resigned from Cornwall Council due to health issues, triggering a by-election for St Columb Minor and Colan.
Parsonage, elected in May as a Reform UK councillor, faced criticism for distance from the constituency and attendance, and she has joined the Cornish Independent Non-aligned Group after leaving Reform UK.
Dartford Borough councillor James Buchan defected from Reform UK to the Conservative Party, citing immigration concerns.

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Buchan Defects Parties

James Buchan, a Dartford councillor, defected from Reform UK to the Conservative Party, citing discomfort with Reform UK's anti-immigration stance and desire to align his actions with his values.
The move comes amid increased scrutiny of Reform UK, including Nigel Farage defending a member's racist comments, and bribery charges against a former Welsh leader.
Buchan's defection signals growing discontent within Reform UK about its direction and policies.

History

Historical Context

The Brexit Party, co-founded by Nigel Farage in 2018, gained prominence by advocating for a no-deal Brexit, winning 31.6% of the vote in the 2019 European Parliament elections. Renamed Reform UK in January 2021, the party has since faced internal dissent, highlighted by James Buchan's defection to the Conservatives, reflecting instability that could influence future UK elections and the political landscape.

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Parsonage Resigns Council

Christine Parsonage has resigned from Cornwall Council due to health issues, triggering a by-election for St Columb Minor and Colan.
Parsonage, elected in May as a Reform UK councillor, faced criticism for distance from the constituency and attendance, and she has joined the Cornish Independent Non-aligned Group after leaving Reform UK.
Dartford Borough councillor James Buchan defected from Reform UK to the Conservative Party, citing immigration concerns.

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