Reform UK breaks into Scottish Parliament with historic Holyrood wins
Reform UK has made its first breakthrough in the Scottish Parliament, securing seats in the Holyrood elections. The party, led by Nigel Farage, described the results as a key step toward reshaping Scotland’s political landscape. Despite failing to win any constituencies, its candidates gained notable support in several regions. Thomas Kerr, a prominent Reform UK candidate, won a seat on the Glasgow regional list with 25.8 per cent of the vote. He immediately dismissed any suggestion of collaboration with the Conservatives, insisting the party would remain independent. Kerr had previously competed for similar seats across Scotland but had never before secured a victory.
In Inverclyde, Reform UK’s Scottish leader, Lord Malcolm Offord, finished third with 17.6 per cent of the vote. He vowed to challenge the government on devolved issues while opposing further constitutional debates reserved for Westminster. Meanwhile, Conrad Ritchie narrowly missed winning Banffshire and Buchan Coast, finishing just 364 votes behind the SNP’s Karen Adam.
The party now aims to build on these results, targeting council elections in 2023 and Westminster seats in the next general election. Farage has framed the Holyrood successes as a 'stepping stone' toward running Scotland, with ambitions to replace the SNP and Greens by 2031. Reform UK also rejected claims of tactical voting, arguing its gains did not assist the SNP in securing key seats. Reform UK’s entry into Holyrood marks a shift in Scotland’s political scene. The party has set clear targets for future elections, including fielding MPs and winning council seats. Its leaders have made it plain they intend to challenge both the SNP and the Greens in the years ahead.
