Overview

• Simpson announced the switch at a press conference in Broxburn, West Lothian, alongside Farage on 27 August.
• He said he will remain a Central Scotland regional list MSP rather than resigning his seat.
• The move makes Simpson Reform UK’s first representative in the Scottish Parliament.
• Farage’s pledge on leadership timing departs from earlier remarks by deputy leader Richard Tice about waiting until after the election.
• Simpson cited voter disillusionment with traditional parties and said he wants to develop a wider policy agenda beyond net zero and immigration.