The political landscape in Dudley has shifted after two Conservative councillors crossed the floor to join Reform UK, igniting a fierce war of words with the local Tory leader.
A Political Defection
On November 9, Councillors James Clinton and Jason Thorne, who represent the Pedmore ward, announced they were leaving the Conservative Party to join Reform UK. This move increases Reform's presence on the 72-seat Dudley Council to three councillors.
The defection reduces the Conservative group to 33 councillors. Despite this loss, the Conservatives remain the largest single party and retain control of the council.
Leadership Clash Over By-Elections
The council's Conservative leader, Councillor Patrick Harley, slammed the defections, stating the pair lacked the 'courage' to trigger by-elections and should stand down from their positions.
However, Reform UK hit back forcefully. Their spokesperson, Marco Longhi, defended the councillors' decision. "Councillors were elected to serve their residents, not to serve a political party. They are continuing to do exactly that," he stated.
Longhi challenged Cllr Harley's consistency, adding, "If Cllr Harley believes every councillor who loses confidence in their party should resign, then he should apply that principle consistently across the chamber."
National Repercussions and Local Commitment
Reform UK rejected the characterisation of the defectors as 'failed Conservatives'. Marco Longhi argued that people are leaving the Conservatives because the party "no longer represents conservative values or the people they serve."
He emphasised that Reform is attracting support from a broad coalition, including former Labour voters and lifelong non-voters who feel abandoned by the established parties.
Nationally, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch told the BBC she was not worried about such defections, suggesting those who jump ship lack the toughness required for government.
Back in Dudley, the focus remains on local service. Longhi confirmed the two new Reform recruits have explained their decision to constituents, asserting that "the badge may have changed, but the commitment to serve residents has not."
