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Reform UK Appoints Welsh Advisor, Sparks Nazi Salute Outcry

5/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Reform UK appointed Corey Edwards as a special adviser to Welsh leader Dan Thomas.
Edwards quit Reform candidacy in March after Nation Cymru published a 2019 photo appearing to show a Nazi salute.
Plaid Cymru and Labour criticised the appointment, saying it raises eyebrows and questions party’s judgment.
Reform UK said it does not comment on staffing matters.
Nigel Farage said the gesture looked terrible but would not expel Edwards.

History

Historical Context

The National Front’s 1999 European-Parliament vote slipped to 5.7% after a party split, prompting calls for stricter candidate vetting. Jean-Marie Le Pen was fined €10,000 in 2008 for Holocaust-denial comments, showing legal action against extremist rhetoric. Reform UK’s hiring of Corey Edwards, despite a 2019 Nazi-salute image, has been condemned by Plaid Cymru, Labour and Nigel Farage, reviving scrutiny of party staff.

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Story summary

Reform UK appointed Corey Edwards as a special adviser to Welsh leader Dan Thomas.
Edwards quit Reform candidacy in March after Nation Cymru published a 2019 photo appearing to show a Nazi salute.
Plaid Cymru and Labour criticised the appointment, saying it raises eyebrows and questions party’s judgment.
Reform UK said it does not comment on staffing matters.
Nigel Farage said the gesture looked terrible but would not expel Edwards.

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