Nadine Dorries defects to Reform UK in massive boost for Nigel Farage

Nadine Dorries has defected to Reform UK in another coup for Nigel Farage. The former Cabinet minister declared that the Conservative Party is "dead" as she announced her move on the eve of Reform's conference.

She told the Daily Mail: "The Tory Party is dead. Its members now need to think the unthinkable and look to the future." Reform leader Mr Farage said he was "absolutely delighted" to welcome Ms Dorries to his insurgent party.

He added: "She is a hugely successful politician, author and columnist and will be a great boost to our campaign to win the next general election."

She will deliver the opening speech at Reform's conference in Birmingham tomorrow.

Ms Dorries reportedly decided to defect because she thinks the Labour Government could collapse within two years and that Tory leader Kemi Badenoch would not be in a position to win a general election.

The close ally of former prime minister Boris Johnson is said to have held secret talks with Mr Farage at the exclusive 5 Hertford Street private members' club in Mayfair.

But it is understood that the Clacton MP did not guarantee her a job in a future Reform administration.

Ms Dorries has not ruled out a return to the Commons after stepping down in 2023 after 18 years representing Mid Bedfordshire.

The former culture secretary has switched to Reform after three decades as a party member.

She is expected to use her influence with Mr Farage to urge him to reach an agreement with right-wing Tory candidates to avoid splitting the vote.

It comes as Reform, which currently has four MPs, is consistently leading national opinion polls.