Zia Yusuf signals Reform UK could form election pact with Conservatives to block Left-wing coalition in the United Kingdom

A senior figure in Reform UK has hinted that the party might consider teaming up with the Conservatives if it means keeping a Left-wing coalition out of power.

Zia Yusuf, head of policy for Nigel Farage’s party, told GB News on Sunday that Reform UK would do the “patriotic thing” in such a scenario, even while criticizing the Tories’ track record in government.

The comments come amid rising speculation that the next general election could produce a hung parliament, potentially forcing Right-wing rivals to set aside differences.

Yusuf repeatedly avoided ruling out an electoral pact, leaving the door open for cooperation with the Conservatives if Labour, the Greens, and the Liberal Democrats were poised to form a government.

The Context of a Hung Parliament

Latest polling suggests that Labour, the Greens, and the Lib Dems collectively command around 45% of the vote, which matches the combined support of the Tories and Reform UK.

Analysts warn that a Left-wing coalition could coordinate to maximize seats, including standing down in certain constituencies to prevent vote splitting.

If that happens, Yusuf indicated, Reform UK might step in to support the Conservatives in specific circumstances, framing it as a matter of national interest rather than party rivalry.

“Well, that’s a big if,” he said, “and in that hypothetical scenario, you’d have to do the patriotic thing.”

Criticism and Caution Toward the Conservatives

Despite leaving the door open for cooperation, Yusuf did not hold back criticism of the Tory Party.

He argued that the Conservatives, in his view, have been dominated by “wets” following defections to Reform UK, including former ministers Robert Jenrick, Suella Braverman, and Nadhim Zahawi.

He warned that the direction of the Conservative Party under this influence was concerning for the country.

At the same time, Yusuf’s comments are seen as a signal that Reform UK is positioning itself as a kingmaker in the next election, ready to influence outcomes without fully merging with the Tories.

Roles for Former Tory Ministers in Reform UK

Reports indicate that the ex-Tory ministers who joined Reform UK will take on key shadow roles.

Yusuf himself is expected to cover Home Office responsibilities, while Jenrick may be appointed Shadow Chancellor, and Zahawi as Shadow Foreign Secretary.

These moves are aimed at showcasing Reform UK as a credible alternative and a party capable of governing alongside, or in partnership with, the Conservatives.

The Stakes in the Next Election

Political commentators note that if Reform UK and the Conservatives can find a working arrangement, they might prevent a Left-wing coalition from forming.

This potential alliance highlights how small party dynamics could have a massive impact on the next government and underscores the strategic maneuvering ahead of what is shaping up to be a highly competitive general election.

What’s next?

Attention will now turn to the formal announcements of these new roles within Reform UK, as well as further polling to see whether a tactical Right-wing alliance could realistically counter the Left’s coalition efforts.

Voter behavior in marginal seats will be key, and both parties will be watching closely for signals from the electorate before making any formal agreements.

Summary

Reform UK, under Zia Yusuf, has hinted at a potential election pact with the Conservatives if a Left-wing coalition threatens to take power.

While critical of the Tories’ governance, Yusuf emphasized that national interest could outweigh party rivalry.

Key former Tory ministers are set to assume shadow roles in Reform UK, signaling the party’s ambition to influence the next general election.

Polling shows a closely matched Right versus Left vote share, making any potential cooperation between Reform UK and the Conservatives a critical factor in determining the outcome.