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One more prominent Conservative Party politician has defected to Nigel Farage’s party, with former minister for health Maria Caulfield revealing she joined four weeks back.

Further Setback for the Tory Party

Even though Caulfield is not currently an MP after failing to hold her Lewes to the Lib Dems last year, her decision represents a further challenge for the Conservatives, coming just a day after a separate defection by a current Tory MP.

A number of senior party members have shifted across in recent months, although as of now only one remains in the House of Commons.

Caulfield’s Remarks

“For those who are Conservative right-minded, then what lies ahead is Reform. The nation is going to change a lot.”

The former MP stated: “Those who believed that the EU exit would not happen are convinced that the party will not happen. They should expect a shock.”

She confirmed that she joined a month ago, noting that her husband had joined some time earlier.

“It’s disappointing for the Conservative party. I realized that my principles remain, but Conservative leadership has become progressively aligned with my values.”

She emphasized that they failed the public over leaving the EU, particularly on legislation, money, and immigration. “Authority was reclaimed, but we failed to do anything regarding it.”

Regarding Reform UK, she remarked: “Reform is about changing the system – things won’t improve unless they do it differently.”

Future Plans

The former minister hinted that there’s a chance she could try to come back as an MP under Reform UK, adding: “It depends on what transpires.”

Reform’s Strategy

Although Nigel Farage’s group is cautious of welcoming too many ex- Conservative MPs, as it could be portrayed as a dumping ground for ejected MPs, Reform is mindful that it is without practical knowledge in governance.

Experienced politicians might bring that expertise.

Recent Defections

A separate sitting Tory MP, formerly acting as political secretary to Boris Johnson, just switched to the party and was named as the director of “government readiness”.

“The Tories is over. Over as a country-wide force, and has ended as the main alternative to the left.”

Despite his defection, the MP took care not to disparage the current Conservative leader, remarking that she had “performed a commendable job in very difficult circumstances”.

The MP continued: “On a personal level, in my view she’s exhibited genuine bravery and resilience. It’s not my intention to target her personally. It seems any leader would’ve faced a tough time over the last year.”

“I do disagree with the strategy. I think the leadership needed to implement is a much more confident declaration of Conservative principles.”

“Yet now we are here, It’s not merely about rejecting the party, I’m actually strongly endorsing the leader and the Reform party, who I think have proven over the recent months that they have emerged as a legitimate, significant opposition group.”