Lee Anderson Defects to Reform UK, Faces Defamation Battle as Tory Tensions Rise

LONDON — In a major political shakeup, Lee Anderson, a sitting Member of Parliament, has officially left the Conservative Party to join Reform UK, marking a historic moment as the party’s first MP in Parliament.

 Anderson’s defection comes amid growing dissatisfaction with Conservative leadership and rising frustration over what he describes as an erosion of free speech within the party.

Anderson’s decision has sent shockwaves through Westminster, deepening the ongoing crisis within the Conservative Party.

 He cited disillusionment with the current state of the party under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, claiming that the Conservatives have drifted away from their core values and failed to stand firm on vital national issues.

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His defection to Reform UK-a right-wing party led by Richard Tice and heavily associated with Nigel Farage — represents a significant boost to the party’s visibility and credibility.  It also signals a potential realignment on the political right, with Reform UK positioning itself as a home for voters and MPs disenchanted with the Conservative establishment.

Anderson’s move has rattled senior Tories, especially as polls indicate growing support for Reform UK among traditional Conservative voters. Party officials fear the defection could encourage others to follow suit and split the right-wing vote in upcoming elections.

The situation was made even more uncomfortable for the Conservative leadership when fellow Tory MP Nick Fletcher publicly praised Anderson’s defection. 

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Fletcher’s remarks sparked internal calls for disciplinary measures, with party members viewing his support as undermining the party's unity during a time of growing instability.

Adding to the controversy, Anderson is now facing a defamation claim from former MP Rupert Lowe. Lowe alleges that Anderson made false and damaging accusations against him in a public Reform UK statement, in which he was accused of bullying and issuing threats. 

The statement reportedly followed Lowe’s outspoken criticism of Nigel Farage, a central figure within Reform UK.

In response, Lowe has issued formal demands for a retraction and public apology from Anderson, Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf, and Farage himself. He has warned that if these demands are not met, court proceedings will follow.

While Anderson’s arrival has given Reform UK fresh momentum, it has also introduced new legal and political challenges. 

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The growing tension highlights fault lines within the broader British right-wing movement, where dissatisfaction with the Conservative Party’s direction is pushing figures toward Reform UK — but not without controversy.

As both legal battles and political fallout continue, Anderson remains at the heart of a fast-developing story that could reshape alliances and voter loyalties ahead of the next general election.

See also:JK Rowling Sparks Uproar After Backing UK Court Ruling on Gender Definition.