Danny Kruger, the Conservative MP for East Wiltshire, has shocked political circles by defecting to Reform UK, becoming the first sitting Tory MP to join the party. The announcement was made during a press conference in Mayfair on Monday, where Reform UK leader Nigel Farage introduced Kruger as the head of the party’s new department focused on preparing for government.
Kruger described his departure from the Conservatives as “personally painful” and delivered a stark critique of his former party. He lamented the Tory Party’s lack of boldness and innovation since last year’s defeat, calling it a party in “stasis and drift,” unable to recapture lost voter support. “The Conservative Party is over,” he declared, “over as a national party, over as the principal opposition to the left.”
He expressed hopes that the Conservative Party would have adapted following their recent setbacks. Instead, Kruger pointed to a year marked by stagnation and a failure to confront difficult issues, resulting in declining public support. He warned that voters are deserting the party in increasing numbers, convinced that its traditional approach is no longer viable.
READ MORE: Somerset Runner Elise Thorner’s Dream Realized with World Championship Final Spot
READ MORE: Bristol First Bus Strikes: What to Expect and How Somerset Services Will Be Affected
Kruger’s new role at Reform UK underscores his commitment to change. “Our mission is not just to overthrow the current system,” he said, “it is to restore the system we need.” The MP, who is also known as the son of TV personality Prue Leith, emphasized that while the Conservative Party may be faltering, conservatism itself remains vital and vibrant. He framed his departure as a passing of the torch to a movement better equipped to offer a conservative alternative in British politics.