Reform UK hires ex-Tory MP who was suspended for using racist language
Anne Marie Morris, who had the whip withdrawn by Theresa May in 2017 for using the term in a debate about Brexit, will lead Reform's social care policy. She is one of several ex-Tories who have defected to Nigel Farage's party.
Morris had used the phrase '[N-word] in the woodpile' in an event at the East India Club, and apologised after the remarks came to light. She had the whip returned to her six months later – one day before a crucial Brexit vote for the then-government.
At the time, Morris said: 'I would like to take this opportunity to apologise again for using such inappropriate and offensive language. It was a mistake and I regret it unreservedly.'
She served for 14 years as an MP for Newton Abbot, and lost the Tory whip again in 2022 after rebelling to back a Labour move in parliament to cut VAT on energy bills.
Other former Conservative MPs to have joined Reform include Lee Anderson, Ross Thomson, Andrea Jenkyns, Marco Longhi and Ann Widdecombe.
There remains speculation that Suella Braverman, the former home secretary, could join the party, after her husband, Rael Braverman, became a member.
After her defection, Morris said: 'The country is in a desperate position. I believe now it is Reform UK that offers the vision and leadership Britain so badly needs. I want to play my part in delivering that vision.'
David Bull, the new chair of Reform, said he was delighted to welcome Morris.
'She brings a wealth of experience with her and will be a crucial part in developing the party's social care policy as we look to build our policy platform ahead of the next general election,' he said.
'Anne Marie is just one of many who realise that Reform UK is the only party that can stop this damaging Labour government in its tracks.'
Reform's manifesto at the last election had a policy on social care of a royal commission and said a national plan was critical for a sustainable social care system.
It said: 'The sector needs flexibility, tax incentives, VAT breaks and less waste. Simplify social care through a single funding stream, instead of the split between NHS and local authorities. More funding will be needed when a national plan is agreed.'
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