Nigel Farage Launches Reform UK Campaign in Welsh Valleys Ahead of General Election Manifesto Release

Nigel Farage is set to kick off the Reform UK campaign in the Welsh valleys as part of a new strategic move preceding the release of the general election manifesto. The campaign aims to challenge Labour’s stronghold in the region, especially among working-class communities that supported the UK’s exit from the EU in the 2016 referendum. Farage argues that these communities have been neglected since devolution, attributing this to the Labour-controlled Welsh Assembly.

Reform UK, leveraging the support from areas like the former mining communities in the valleys of South Wales, is preparing to unveil a manifesto on Monday. The manifesto is expected to not only critique the current Conservative government but also highlight what the party describes as the ‘disaster’ caused by the Labour-led devolved administration in Wales.

According to Reform UK, certain polls indicate a lead over the Conservatives in the popular vote in Wales. Additionally, historical data suggests that parties led by Farage have consistently outperformed the Welsh nationalist Plaid Cymru in every election they have contested.

A spokesperson for Reform UK outlined the party’s distinct approach, noting that while other parties typically launch their manifestos in favorable environments, Reform UK is opting for a different strategy. The party aims to address the perceived neglect of Wales by Westminster post-devolution, especially shedding light on issues like the impact of net zero policies on places like Port Talbot.

The steelworks at Port Talbot, operated by Abbey, recently faced challenges linked to the government’s net zero strategy—a move supported by Labour. This event further underscores Reform UK’s core messaging and resonates with their plans for the region.

Earlier this year, Nigel Farage’s return as the leader of Reform UK and his decision to stand for parliament saw a significant surge in party membership, signaling growing momentum and interest in the party’s agenda.