Fareham Constituents Express Mixed Views on Braverman's Political Shift
In the Hampshire constituency of Fareham and Waterlooville, local residents have been sharing their perspectives following the unexpected defection of their Member of Parliament, Suella Braverman, from the Conservative Party to Reform UK. The announcement, made at a Reform event in London this week, has sparked a range of reactions from constituents who have experienced her representation firsthand.
Local Business Owners Voice Divergent Opinions
Jamie Jewell, the proprietor of the Golden Lion pub in Fareham town centre, expressed frustration with Braverman's lack of engagement. "I've sent emails saying 'we need support here' and never received a response. Not even an acknowledgment," Jewell revealed. He recounted how Braverman visited his establishment in January last year, offering assistance with a protected tree issue and sharing photographs on social media, but communication has since ceased entirely. "I don't want her in my pub. She's not helped us at all," he stated firmly regarding her political future.
In contrast, Roy Gillingham, owner of Fareham Wine Cellar, showed understanding and support for Braverman's decision. "She's very much more in tune with what Reform is doing," he observed, noting that Braverman regularly purchased wine from his business for Conservative party meetings. "She stands good and hard for local people. That's more important than what party she belongs to." Gillingham, who voted for Braverman in 2024, indicated he would support her again despite the party change, emphasising the importance of the individual over political affiliation.
Constituents Express Concern and Disappointment
Among other Fareham residents, reactions varied significantly. Graham Cull, a lifelong Conservative voter at 68 years old, admitted disappointment but showed comprehension. "I can understand why she's doing it. The Conservatives are in disarray at the moment," he commented, reflecting broader political uncertainties.
Sue Cox, aged 70, described the defection as "quite alarming" and suggested it might represent a "gut reaction" to Braverman's dissatisfaction with her former party. "But is the alternative the right alternative?" she questioned, expressing apprehension about voting for an unknown entity. Cox also referenced Reform UK's figurehead, noting "Nigel Farage changes his tune like the weather, doesn't he?"
Political Colleagues and Local Officials Respond
Paul Holmes, a neighbouring Conservative MP, revealed that his working relationship with Braverman had diminished since the 2017 general election. Following her defection, he stated "I wouldn't pick up the phone to Suella," criticising her failure to inform colleagues, staff, or her constituency association beforehand as "highly disrespectful and discourteous." Holmes reported receiving messages from constituents urging him not to follow suit and noted some new party members had joined specifically because they disliked Braverman's politics.
Simon Martin, leader of the local council, issued a statement expressing disappointment, particularly given recent assurances from Braverman that such a move would not occur. "We feel let down not only with the defection, but also that no prior indication was given to the Conservative group of her intentions," he said, highlighting the impact on team members who campaigned for her as a Conservative candidate.
Manuel Martins, chair of the Fareham and Waterlooville Conservative association, echoed these sentiments, describing the defection as "both a surprise and a huge disappointment" in light of repeated reassurances from the MP.
Calls for Byelection and Historical Comparisons
Dave Acheson, a 37-year-old non-Conservative voter, characterised Braverman's move as "nakedly self-interested" and predictable. "I just thought it's another rat leaving the sinking ship. Let's hope she's going to another sinking ship," he remarked. Acheson strongly criticised her political methods, stating "I despise her and everything she stands for, and the way she uses demonisation to get ahead in politics. I just think it's sickening." He advocated for a rule requiring MPs to stand in a byelection upon changing parties, a point his brother Michael supported by referencing Winston Churchill's historical precedent.
Braverman, who served as Home Secretary under Rishi Sunak from 2022 to 2023 and has represented Fareham since 2015, now faces a constituency with divided loyalties as she embarks on this new political chapter with Reform UK.
