Pressure is increasing on Nigel Farage as one of his top aides declined to denounce a Reform candidate’s suggestion for David Lammy to return to the Caribbean. Chris Parry, the mayoral hopeful for Hampshire and the Solent, had previously implied that Lammy’s allegiance was not with the UK. Reform MP Danny Kruger, at a recent press briefing, mentioned his lack of awareness regarding the context of Parry’s statement.
In a tweet shared in February, Parry mentioned that Lammy should go back to the Caribbean due to his loyalty. Lammy called on Farage to take action against the “1950s-style hate” within the party. When questioned about the racist nature of the remark, Kruger, who switched from the Conservatives to Reform, deferred the decision to Farage and party leadership, emphasizing Parry’s commendable public service history.
Keir Starmer referenced Parry’s comment during a recent PMQs session, accusing Farage of promoting discord and disarray. Labour chair Anna Turley criticized Farage’s inaction, labeling the statement as racist and urging for immediate dismissal of the candidate. Despite this, Kruger defended Reform’s stance against racism and expressed confidence in their anti-racist stance. Reform UK has been contacted for additional input.
The controversy surrounding Parry comes shortly after Ian Cooper, Reform’s council leader in Staffordshire, resigned following allegations of racist remarks on social media. Starmer highlighted the racist incidents within Reform, linking them to chaos and division, criticizing Farage’s leadership.
Cooper’s membership in Reform was revoked after past racist remarks surfaced. He stepped down as council leader and now serves as an independent member. Lammy reiterated his stance against racism, urging Farage to address the discriminatory behavior within the party.