Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has firmly stated that members of the far-right, including those identified as “groypers,” are not welcome in the party. In an exclusive interview, Tice emphasized the party’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy, highlighting that it has already expelled individuals who do not align with its values. The statement follows controversy surrounding party leader Nigel Farage, who has faced allegations of making antisemitic remarks during his time at Dulwich College nearly 50 years ago.
During a visit to northwest London on March 15, 2024, hosted by councillor Mark Shooter, Tice defended Farage but acknowledged that the party’s response to the allegations could have been handled better. Tice remarked, “The evidence already shows we’ve thrown people out… we just weren’t prepared to tolerate it.” He noted that since taking a stand against far-right elements, the party has seen an increase in polling, membership, and by-election victories.
Tice’s comments come amid growing concerns about the rise of antisemitism on the far right in the UK and the influence of American far-right supporters, particularly those inspired by political activist Nick Fuentes. He described the party’s core principles, which include family, community, and country, as being central to its identity. Tice asserted, “We don’t want people in Reform who don’t share those values, and who’ve got bad attitudes.”
The party’s candidate for the 2028 London Mayoral election, Laila Cunningham, has faced abuse from some right-wing commentators due to her Muslim faith. Tice condemned such remarks as “appalling” and “absolutely bonkers.” Despite the controversies, Tice reiterated his support for Farage, who has not apologized for the alleged remarks, stating that many of Farage’s former classmates do not recall the events as described.
The interview also touched on broader issues of national security, with Tice advocating for the proscription of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations. He criticized both the Labour and Conservative parties for failing to take decisive action on these groups, stating, “Both main parties have talked about it and never done it.”
Tice attributed the rise of antisemitism in the UK to “weak leadership,” citing events that followed the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. He expressed his shock at pro-Palestine marches that occurred shortly after the attacks and called for a ban on such demonstrations if they incited hatred or violence.
In an effort to address concerns about antisemitism within the party, Tice and other members visited the Community Security Trust (CST) after the interview. The CST welcomed the meeting, highlighting the serious threats facing the community and urging a resolution to the allegations surrounding Farage.
Tice expressed frustration over the UK government’s leadership in addressing these issues, particularly in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. He criticized its approach, stating, “Our Foreign Office is riddled with cowardice, and there needs to be a major clearout of this gutless approach to the difference between right and wrong.”
The deputy leader also indicated that a Reform UK government would not hesitate to withdraw from international bodies if their policies did not align with national interests. He pointed out the inconsistencies in the UK’s stance compared to that of Middle Eastern countries, notably the United Arab Emirates, which designates the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization.
As the party prepares for upcoming local elections, Tice highlighted Reform UK’s commitment to standing up for the Jewish community. He expressed optimism about the party’s chances in areas with significant Jewish populations, stating that they are showing “absolute support for the Jewish community and for people living in this country who are feeling fearful about the future.”
By promoting a message of hope and stability, Tice aims to reinforce the party’s identity and address the pressing challenges facing the nation, particularly in the economic sphere, as he warned that the UK is heading towards potential bankruptcy under the current Labour government.
