Nigel Farage hints at return for fellow Essex MP

Nigel Farage has hinted that one of his former MPs in Essex, who quit Reform UK after allegations of financial misconduct, could rejoin his party.

James McMurdock gave up his party whip last year over questions about his eligibility for Covid-19 support loans that he received through two companies. He denied any wrongdoing.

Asked during a local election campaign visit to Corringham in Essex, Farage said "I'm hoping we can get this thing ironed out".

McMurdock sits as an independent for South Basildon and East Thurrock, which includes Corringham, and he confirmed he would like to rejoin the party.

"I really think Reform is an important movement at the minute," said McMurdock.

Asked if he was eligible for two payments that the Sunday Times first reported in July and totalled £70,000, McMurdock said: "All of my business conduct has always been above board with proper sign off with appropriate qualified professionals."

Reform had said it would carry out its own internal investigation and that McMurdock had agreed to "cooperate in full".

Farage was asked if McMurdock had been cleared of any wrongdoing by the party.

The Clacton MP said he spoke with him a "couple of weeks ago" and said: "I hope we can sort things out. I don't want to prejudge anything".

If McMurdock rejoined Reform it would take the total number of the party's MPs to nine.

Labour criticised Reform's handling of McMurdock in a statement: "After serious allegations surfaced against James McMurdock over his financial affairs, Nigel Farage did nothing.

"If Reform are intent on letting him back into their party, it will tell you everything you need know about Farage's judgement.

"Reform simply cannot be trusted to uphold the high standards expected in public life."

McMurdock won his seat in Essex from the Conservatives in the July 2024 General Election, beating Labour by just 98 votes.

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