Overview

• Cleverly argued that Reform UK cannot reconcile claims of being a radical new movement with its influx of former Conservative MPs.
• He warned that voters will notice failures in essential local services like waste collection and adult social care under inexperienced Reform-run councils.
• He described populist calls to “smash the system” and start again as a fantasy that undermines practical governance.
• He urged a reduction of quangos, commissioners and advisory bodies to strengthen accountability in government decision-making.
• He framed his own political mission as returning the Conservatives to power at every level and declined to rule out future bids for London mayor or party leadership.