In a striking political development, a former Labour Mayor has publicly urged voters in Hillingdon to support the Conservative Party in the upcoming local elections, aiming to thwart the advance of Reform UK. This endorsement has ignited fierce criticism from Reform candidates, who accuse the two major parties of forming a "self-serving cartel" to protect their dominance.
Cross-Party Endorsement Sparks Controversy
The controversy centers on a campaign leaflet distributed to homes in Hillingdon, signed by David Bond, who served as the Labour Mayor of Ealing from 2000 to 2001. In the letter, Bond warns residents that Reform UK is "polling strongly in parts of the country" and targeting councils like Hillingdon. He argues that while Reform may lack deep local roots, a surge in support could have significant consequences, potentially giving Nigel Farage a platform to "take over the country."
Bond emphasizes that this election is "not about sending a message" but about "preventing an outcome," positioning the local Conservatives as the only organized team capable of blocking a Reform breakthrough. This cross-party appeal has drawn sharp rebukes from political opponents, highlighting the intense competition in Outer London boroughs.
Reform UK Candidate Slams 'Uniparty' Tactics
Laila Cunningham, a Reform UK candidate for Mayor of London and Westminster City councillor, took to social media to condemn the letter. Sharing photos of the campaign material, she labeled the situation as "the uniparty fighting for survival." Cunningham, who defected from the Conservative Party to Reform UK in June 2025, accused Labour and the Conservatives of no longer "pretending" about their alliance, describing them as "two parties, one self-serving cartel."
Her comments underscore the growing tension between established political forces and insurgent groups like Reform UK, which has been focusing on "natural targets" in Outer London, including boroughs such as Bexley, Bromley, Havering, and to a lesser extent, Hillingdon, according to Tory peer Lord Hayward in January.
Party Responses and Historical Context
A spokesperson for Hillingdon Conservatives welcomed Bond's support, stating, "We're pleased that someone with David's experience in local government, including his time as the Labour Mayor of Ealing, has chosen to support us at this election." They noted that Bond understands concerns about Reform's rise and that only Hillingdon Conservatives can stop them in the borough. The spokesperson also pointed out the irony of Cunningham's criticism, given her previous role as a Conservative councillor working against Reform.
In contrast, a Hillingdon Labour spokesperson dismissed the endorsement, saying, "If the Conservatives have to rely on someone who was a Labour Mayor in a different borough 25 years ago - that tells people all they need to know about the quality of their campaign." They emphasized that Labour is focused on delivering a better future for Hillingdon, rather than clinging to "ancient history."
This incident highlights the shifting political landscape in London, where traditional party lines are being blurred by the rise of Reform UK. As local elections approach, such cross-party maneuvers and defections are likely to intensify, reflecting broader national trends of political realignment and voter disillusionment with established institutions.
