Senior Reform UK figures in Scotland have thrown their support behind Nigel Farage following his decision to resign as MP for Clacton and contest the resulting by-election.

The move was announced on Monday 7 July, with Mr Farage saying the contest would give voters in Clacton the opportunity to judge issues raised about his conduct for themselves.

He has denied wrongdoing and said he has complied with the rules.

Reform UK’s Scottish leadership says the decision places the matter directly before the electorate.

Malcolm Offord MSP, Reform UK’s Scottish leader, said:

“Let us be absolutely clear.

“We stand four-square behind Nigel Farage.

“In a democracy, the final verdict belongs to voters.

“Nigel has chosen not to hide behind process or allow others to define the argument.

“He is going back to Clacton, facing the public directly, and asking them to decide.

“Millions of people across Britain feel shut out by a political class that too often talks over them.

“They want representatives who are prepared to stand in front of voters, answer difficult questions and accept the judgment of the ballot box.

“That is exactly what Nigel Farage is doing.”

Thomas Kerr MSP, Reform UK’s Scottish deputy leader, also backed the decision.

He said:

“Nigel Farage has our full and unequivocal support.

“Politics should be settled by voters, not by Westminster games or media campaigns.

“He has taken the strongest possible course.

“He is putting his mandate back in the hands of the people who elected him.

“This campaign must now be won the best way.

“Street by street, door by door, conversation by conversation.

“Voters respect politicians who turn up, make the case and trust the public to decide.”

The pair said they support Mr Farage and Reform UK activists as preparations begin for what they describe as a high profile grassroots campaign in Clacton.

They concluded:

“We back Nigel without hesitation.

“Democracy is strongest when politicians put their trust in the people.

“We encourage everyone who believes Britain needs change to get involved, get campaigning and make their voice heard.”

The by-election is expected to attract significant national attention, with Reform UK framing the contest as an opportunity for voters to deliver their own verdict at the ballot box.