Reform UK unveiled a new shadow cabinet on Tuesday morning, naming Robert Jenrick as its proposed chancellor in what the party described as a reshaping of the Reform UK shadow cabinet ahead of the next general election.
The move marks Nigel Farage’s clearest attempt yet to present Reform as a governing alternative rather than a protest party, at a time when national opinion polls have placed it ahead of the Conservatives.
For London, the appointments carry particular weight. Tax policy, housing, energy and equalities legislation all have direct implications for the capital’s financial services sector, property market and universities.
Jenrick, who defected from the Conservatives last month, said Reform’s plans would restore economic stability, cut public spending waste, reduce the benefits bill and lower taxes. He previously served as housing secretary and held ministerial posts at the Home Office and Department of Health, as well as a junior Treasury role under Theresa May.
Experience and positioning
Alongside Jenrick, Suella Braverman was appointed to the education and skills brief, while deputy leader Richard Tice took on a combined portfolio covering business, trade and energy. Farage said the appointments demonstrated that Reform was now “the voice of opposition” to the Labour government.
Although the Conservatives remain the official opposition in Parliament, Farage argued that Reform’s polling position justified naming its own frontbench team. The party has led several national surveys since last spring.
Zia Yusuf, Reform’s head of policy, was confirmed as lead on home affairs with a focus on reducing both legal and illegal immigration. Before Jenrick’s defection, both Tice and Yusuf had been seen as potential candidates for the chancellorship in a future Reform government.
Policy direction
Tice said he would prioritise oil and gas production and abandon net zero targets as part of a growth strategy. Braverman said a Reform administration would aim for half of young people to enter trades rather than university and confirmed the party would scrap the role of equalities minister.
She also pledged to repeal the Equality Act 2010, which provides protections against discrimination in workplaces and public services. According to the Equality and Human Rights Commission, the legislation underpins legal safeguards across employment, housing and public life.
Reform has not yet outlined what framework would replace the Act if it were repealed.
Political reaction
Opposition parties criticised the reshuffle. Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake said Reform’s front bench resembled “a tribute act”. Labour Party chair Anna Turley described the team as “failed Tories”. Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said changing titles would not alter public perceptions of Conservative governance.
Reform currently holds eight MPs and has not published a full policy programme ahead of the next general election, which is not expected until 2029. In November, Farage stepped back from an earlier pledge to deliver £90bn a year in tax cuts, instead proposing more limited measures such as raising tax thresholds and altering inheritance tax policy.
The formation of a shadow cabinet signals an effort to institutionalise the party’s leadership structure as it seeks to convert polling support into parliamentary strength.
As the political landscape shifts, the implications for London’s economy and public institutions will become clearer. For continued coverage of UK politics and its impact on the capital, follow EyeOnLondon.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
