Story perspectives

Jackie Baillie: Reform UK 'Con Artists', Back Scottish Labour

1/2/2026

Center

Baillie Rejects Coalition

Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour deputy leader, rejects any coalition with Reform UK and says supporting Scottish Labour is the only viable option to oust SNP.
She labels Reform UK "undercover Tories and self-interested con artists" and notes polls show Reform could be the second-largest Holyrood party with around 20 MSPs.
Reform has yet to appoint a leader or set policies ahead of the May elections.

Left

Powell Urges Labour Strategy

Sir Chris Powell, a former strategist for New Labour, warns Keir Starmer lacks a plan to counter UK populism from Reform UK and Nigel Farage.
He urges Labour to develop a robust strategy to engage voters and address concerns.
Powell advises adopting a US-style approach focused on relatable issues.
Time is critical, as upcoming elections could significantly affect Labour's position.

History

Historical Context

The Reform Act of 1832 marked a pivotal shift in British electoral politics, enfranchising around 300,000 men and expanding the electorate to approximately 1.2 million. This act addressed representation inequalities, particularly benefiting industrial cities. Today, Jackie Baillie's rejection of a coalition with Reform UK reflects ongoing political tensions, echoing the historical struggles for voter engagement and representation that began in the 19th century.

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Baillie Rejects Coalition

Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour deputy leader, rejects any coalition with Reform UK and says supporting Scottish Labour is the only viable option to oust SNP.
She labels Reform UK "undercover Tories and self-interested con artists" and notes polls show Reform could be the second-largest Holyrood party with around 20 MSPs.
Reform has yet to appoint a leader or set policies ahead of the May elections.

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