‘Reform UK should take immediate action against racism’, Burnham says

Reform UK has faced significant backlash after secretly recorded footage revealed its councillors and candidates making racist, sexist, and discriminatory remarks. The ITV investigation, conducted over a year, documented instances where Reform officials advised potential candidates to delete far-right content from their social media before encouraging them to stand. Despite these findings, Reform maintains that there is "no room for racism" in the party and emphasizes ongoing investigations while denying systematic issues.

Alan Feeney, a prominent Reform councillor who made derogatory comments about Asian communities during a local election campaign, has resigned from his positions in Solihull and Birmingham following public outcry. Feeney apologized, stating that his remarks were "wrong, offensive, and completely unacceptable."

Prime Minister Kemi Badenoch urged Reform to take immediate action against those involved in the abhorrent comments, reinforcing the message that there is no place for racism or discrimination in British politics. Meanwhile, party leader Nigel Farage defended Reform by suggesting that the investigation was politically motivated.

Critics argue that while Reform acknowledges individual instances of misconduct, it fails to address systemic issues within the organization. The lack of public defense from Reform MPs following the exposé has further fueled skepticism about the party's commitment to addressing these concerns comprehensively.