Overview

• Rael Braverman, partner of former home secretary Suella Braverman, resigned from Reform UK effective July 16 after defecting from the Conservatives six months earlier.
• His departure followed a public accusation by Reform efficiency tsar Zia Yusuf that Suella Braverman and another minister covered up a secret scheme granting asylum to about 24,000 Afghans after a 2023 MoD data leak.
• Suella Braverman issued a six-point rebuttal denying any involvement in the relocation plan and stating she left government before it was established.
• Labour leader Keir Starmer pressed for answers during Prime Minister’s Questions, demanding former ministers explain the estimated £7 billion cost to taxpayers.
• The resignations and disputes highlight growing friction between Reform UK and senior Conservative figures as both seek to solidify right-wing support before the next general election.