In a significant political development, Nigel Farage has unveiled Dan Thomas as Reform UK's new leader in Wales. The announcement came during a sold-out rally at the International Convention Centre Wales near Newport, where approximately one thousand supporters gathered to hear the news.
A Strategic Appointment Ahead of Crucial Elections
The timing of this appointment is particularly strategic, coming just three months before the Senedd elections where Reform UK could potentially secure the most seats in Wales. This represents a remarkable opportunity for the hard-right party to make substantial gains in Welsh politics.
From London Council to Welsh Leadership
Dan Thomas brings considerable political experience to his new role, having served as Conservative leader of Barnet council between 2019 and 2022. His tenure ended when Labour seized control of the north London council, marking a significant shift in local governance.
Thomas defected to Reform UK last summer and subsequently stood down as councillor for Finchley Church End in December. This ward holds historical significance as it was long associated with Margaret Thatcher, adding an interesting dimension to Thomas's political journey.
Returning to Welsh Roots
The former Conservative leader has now returned to his south Wales valleys home town of Blackwood, a move that Farage emphasised during the announcement. "He tells a story of someone who had to go away but loves Wales so much he wants his own children to grow up in a similar environment," Farage explained to the enthusiastic crowd.
Farage further justified his choice by highlighting Thomas's political experience: "And above all, because he's battle hardened ... Running budgets and facing opposition to development and many other things, and I think Reform UK here in Wales deserves to be led by somebody who's been there before and will keep a calm head through the good and bad."
Political Momentum Building
The rally atmosphere was charged with energy, with Farage receiving a standing ovation before introducing Thomas. Journalists covering the event reported being jeered and booed during the media conference, indicating the passionate support Reform UK has cultivated among its base.
Defections Strengthening Reform's Position
Before announcing Thomas's appointment, Farage introduced James Evans as the party's newest Conservative defector. Evans, the Senedd member for Brecon and Radnorshire, was sacked by the Tories last month amid suspicions he was planning to join Reform and has since sat as an independent.
This defection brings the number of Reform MSs in the Senedd to two, following the earlier defection of Conservative MS for South Wales East, Laura Anne Jones, last July. This growing representation suggests Reform UK is successfully attracting established politicians to its cause.
Electoral Prospects and Challenges
While support for Reform has surged over the past twelve months, recent polling indicates some potential challenges. Last month's figures suggested Reform has dropped from twenty-nine percent to twenty-three percent of the vote, though this would still represent a substantial electoral achievement.
Such a result could potentially increase Reform's representation from two MSs to twenty-three, which would make Farage's party the first rightwing organisation with a realistic chance of winning in Wales since the 1850s. However, the polling dip might suggest Reform's support has peaked, adding uncertainty to their electoral prospects.
Historical Context and Future Ambitions
Farage has previous experience of making gains in the Welsh parliament, having seen seven UK Independence Party members elected through the former national assembly's regional lists vote in 2016. This historical success provides a foundation for Reform UK's current ambitions in Wales.
Thomas expressed his determination during the announcement: "We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to smash Labour's failing grip in Wales ... I will pour my heart and soul into fighting for every vote. We're fighting to win because this is the last chance for Wales. We are at a turning point."
Policy Development and Autonomy
Farage emphasised that Thomas would have "full autonomy" on Welsh policy and in dealing with devolved governance matters. This represents a significant delegation of authority within the party structure.
"I wouldn't even pretend to know what needed to happen within the failing NHS in Wales. When it comes to national policy, if we have a disagreement ... [We will come to] a conclusion and work it out," Farage stated, highlighting the collaborative approach he intends to maintain with the new Welsh leader.
Electoral Preparations Underway
Reform UK is actively preparing for the upcoming elections, with Farage announcing that candidates for Senedd lists would be revealed in the first half of March. The party plans to field nearly one hundred candidates across the sixteen new constituencies created by the new voting system, demonstrating their comprehensive electoral strategy.
Thomas confirmed that a "positive, ambitious" manifesto would be announced soon, though current Reform policies in Wales remain somewhat limited. The party has committed to abolishing the Labour-led Welsh government's twenty-mile-per-hour speed limit in urban areas, a promise reiterated during Thursday's rally.
Controversial Economic Proposals
Farage has also made several controversial economic pledges for Wales, including reopening the country's coalmines and restarting the blast furnaces at Port Talbot's steelworks. These proposals have faced criticism from opponents who argue they are "technically impossible," setting the stage for heated debates during the election campaign.
The appointment of Dan Thomas represents a significant moment in Welsh politics, as Reform UK positions itself as a serious contender in the upcoming Senedd elections. With a mix of experienced political leadership, growing defections from established parties, and controversial policy proposals, the stage is set for a dramatic electoral battle that could reshape Welsh political landscape.
