Reform UK leader Nigel Farage (Image: Getty)
has launched a new defection unit ahead of the local elections.
‘s insurgent party has a dedicated page on its website for those wanting to switch from Labour and the .
A team at Reform’s headquarters in central London has been assigned to go through applications.
It is understood Reform has had a spike in interest from current and former councillors ahead of the ballots in May as it climbs the polls.
The webpage states: “Given the volume of current and former elected officials wishing to join Reform from other parties, we now have a dedicated team handling applications.
“Your application will be handled in the strictest confidence. You will be assessed for your track record, your values and your motivations.”
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There have been suggestions of a potential cut-off point for defections.
Some of the highest profile switches to Reform have been former Tory chairman Lee Anderson, the MP for Ashfield, and ex-Conservative minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns, who is standing to be mayor of Lincolnshire.
The party has also had a series of councillor defections, with the first from Labour last week in Mr Anderson’s Ashfield constituency.
It comes as Reform has reacted with fury to local elections being postponed in nine areas due to an overhaul of town halls from two-tier to unitary authorities.
Clacton MP Mr Farage accused the Government of “sheer cowardice” over the move.
The rebranded Party had been expected to perform well in areas including Thurrock.
Votes are due to be held in May 2026 after the expected reorganisation.