News at One Another high profile Tory deflects to Nigel Farage's reform
Jan 26, 2026
Kitty Donaldson, chief political commentator at the iPaper, gives sharp analysis of Westminster manoeuvres. She dissects Labour’s decision to block Andy Burnham’s by-election bid and its effects on party unity. She unpacks Suella Braverman’s defection to Reform and what it means for Conservative fortunes and Nigel Farage’s party. Short, pointed takes on power, strategy and internal tensions.
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Starmer Frames Block As Protecting Election Focus
- Keir Starmer framed blocking Andy Burnham's bid as protecting focus on imminent local and devolved elections.
- He argued a Manchester mayoral contest now would divert resources from crucial contests in England, Wales and Scotland.
Burnham Returns To Mayoral Duties
- Andy Burnham declined to comment to the BBC and insisted he was returning to his mayoral duties.
- He repeatedly said he had 'said everything that I needed to say' and would focus on his job as Mayor of Greater Manchester.
Braverman Move Boosts Reform's Momentum
- Suella Braverman's defection to Reform raises their MP tally to eight and feeds Reform's slow momentum.
- Kitty Donaldson noted critics call Reform a 'retirement home for veiled Tories' and saw Braverman's move as unsurprising given her rightward stance.