Reform UK’s newest MSP, Graham Simpson, is facing growing pressure after past statements surfaced that appear to clash with the hardline positions of party leader Nigel Farage.
The SNP has drawn attention to comments made by Simpson earlier this year in support of net zero and immigration, two issues at the heart of Reform UK’s populist campaign.
In February, Simpson said:
“If we are to grow as a nation, we need to invest in transport, net zero and a just transition.”
But Farage, who now leads the party Simpson has joined, has dismissed net zero as “lunacy” and pledged to lift the UK’s fracking ban.
Simpson also previously wrote that “Scotland needs immigration, but so does the rest of the UK.
The movement of people enriches both societies and those who move.”
By contrast, Farage recently set out plans to repeal the Human Rights Act, withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights, and deport 600,000 asylum seekers if Reform UK wins the next general election.
SNP Depute Leader Keith Brown said:
“These comments raise serious questions for Nigel Farage and his new MSP.
“Farage’s populist agenda has wrecked the UK economy, stoked division and demonised immigrants, all for political gain.
“Either Graham Simpson is copying Farage in an embarrassing attempt to keep his seat, or Reform UK’s policy positions are as vacuous as Labour’s promises.”
Brown added that, while people across Scotland continue to struggle with the cost of living:
“Farage and Simpson are joining forces to stoke division and keep Scotland trapped in the Westminster status quo.”
He concluded:
“The SNP will always stand against the demonisation of minorities by the likes of Reform UK, focusing on delivery and giving people hope for a better future with independence.”
