Reform UK Loses Control of Worcestershire County Council After Coalition Takes Power

Reform UK has lost control of Worcestershire County Council, a year after securing a minority administration. A new power-sharing coalition, comprising Conservatives, the Green Party, Liberal Democrats, and independent councillors, now holds authority following a council meeting on Thursday morning.

Green Councillor Matt Jenkins has been installed as the new leader, replacing Reform UK’s administration. The change in leadership comes amidst significant internal turmoil within the Reform UK group on the council.

Former council leader Jo Monk remains suspended from Reform UK, having been removed from her position last month for reportedly “refusing to accept the democratic decision of the Reform UK group.” Her son, Ashley Monk, also a Reform councillor, faces suspension on allegations of bringing the party into disrepute.

Reform UK held 24 of the 57 seats on the council, governing as a minority administration since last year's local elections. The party’s tenure was marked by controversy, including a 9% increase in council tax and the authority requiring £59.9 million in emergency government funding to avert bankruptcy.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, described the council as “bankrupt,” asserting that the party “didn’t make it bankrupt, we inherited it.” Farage also reportedly stated he wished the party “hadn’t bothered” to take control of the authority, citing its severe financial challenges.