Full Breakdown
Reform UK Expels Two Councillors Over Planned Defection to Restore Britain
2/20/2026, 2:20:49 AM
Core Event: Expulsion of Councillors from Reform UK
Two councillors from Warwickshire, Scott Cameron and Luke Cooper, have been expelled from the Reform UK party after announcing plans to defect to a newly formed political party, Restore Britain. The decision was confirmed on February 19, 2023, by Cllr George Finch, the leader of Reform UK on Warwickshire County Council. Both councillors had their party whip removed due to their intentions to join Restore Britain, which was established by former Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe.
Background & Context: Formation of Restore Britain
Restore Britain was created in early February 2023 by Rupert Lowe, who had previously been suspended from Reform UK following allegations of making threats against the party's then-chairman, Zia Yusuf. Although initially launched as a political movement, Lowe has since transitioned it into a national political party. The recent defection plans by Cameron and Cooper follow a similar trend, as seven former Reform UK councillors from Kent County Council have also joined Restore Britain.
Official Statements & Responses
Cllr Finch stated that the actions of Cameron and Cooper were inappropriate for representatives of Reform UK, emphasizing that the party is committed to serving residents rather than engaging in actions that could undermine local governance. A spokesperson for Reform UK expressed disappointment, accusing the councillors of betraying their electors and the mandate that enabled their election. The spokesperson reiterated the party's zero-tolerance policy towards members who plan to abandon their commitments.
Criticism & Opposition
The expulsion has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly regarding the implications for local governance and party unity. Critics argue that the actions of Cameron and Cooper reflect broader issues within Reform UK, including its stability and the loyalty of its members. The formation of Restore Britain and the subsequent defections may indicate a fragmentation within the right-wing political landscape in the UK.
What's Next: Future of Reform UK and Restore Britain
The immediate future for both Reform UK and Restore Britain remains uncertain. Reform UK, which currently holds 20 out of 57 seats on Warwickshire County Council, continues to assert its position as the largest party despite the recent defections. Meanwhile, Restore Britain is expected to seek further recruitment from disaffected members of Reform UK and other political groups as it aims to establish itself as a viable alternative in the UK political arena.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In these circumstances, it is not appropriate for them to continue to represent Reform UK or sit within our group.” — Cllr George Finch, Leader of Reform UK on Warwickshire County Council
- “We are disappointed that they have betrayed their electors and the mandate they were given in order to become affiliated with a movement that is not even registered with the Electoral Commission.” — Reform UK Spokesperson
