Reform Now Becomes UK’s Largest Party Following Labour Membership Decline

Reform UK has ascended to become the largest political party in the UK based on membership, surpassing the Labour Party. This shift comes as Labour has experienced a significant decline, shedding approximately 100,000 members since the recent general election. Current data reveals that the Labour Party now has fewer than 250,000 paid-up members.

Membership Decline of Labour Party

Following the general election win in July last year, Labour’s membership dropped drastically, with reports indicating a loss of one member every seven minutes. Previously, Labour’s membership had been a well-kept secret, particularly under Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership. In 2020, the party boasted over 500,000 members, making it the largest political party in Europe.

Key Membership Figures

• Labour Party: Below 250,000 members.
• Reform UK: 268,631 members.
• Conservative Party: Approximately 123,000 members as of July.
• Green Party: Increased from 126,000 to 180,000 since October.
• Liberal Democrats: 83,174 members, a slight decrease from the previous year.
• Your Party: Attracted 50,000 members since its launch.

Reform UK’s Growth and Financial Backing

Reform UK’s growth has been further supported by substantial financial contributions, including a notable £9 million donation from cryptocurrency billionaire Christopher Harborne. This funding has contributed to Reform raising over £10 million between July and September. Comparatively, the Conservative Party raised £4.6 million, while Labour secured only £2.1 million during the same period.

Political Landscape Changes

The shifting political landscape is apparent as Reform UK’s membership surpassed that of the Conservative Party last year. Reform’s leader, Nigel Farage, remarked on this achievement, calling it a significant milestone and signaling the end of traditional two-party politics in the UK.

Challenges Ahead

Despite their upward trajectory, Reform UK faces scrutiny regarding potential overspending in election campaigns. Essex police have announced they will examine allegations that Reform exceeded electoral spending limits in the Clacton constituency. However, Reform has disputed these claims, attributing them to a former official with grievances.

Defections and New Members

Reform UK continues to attract former members from other parties. Over 20 former Conservative MPs have joined, including notable figures such as Sir Jake Berry and Nadine Dorries. Reports suggest that Farage has countered claims of a pact with the Conservatives, focusing instead on recruiting new members.

As Reform UK establishes itself as a key player in British politics, its membership milestone represents a pivotal shift. Farage and his party assert that their rise marks a new era in the political landscape, indicating that traditional party dominance is being challenged.