Why did Jonathan Gullis defect to Reform UK? Former Tory Deputy Chair blames Conservatives for losing public trust

Jonathan Gullis, previously a senior member of the Conservative Party, has made headlines after formally defecting to Reform UK. The former deputy chairman of the Conservative Party and one-time MP for Stoke-on-Trent North said his 18-year membership ended because the Conservatives “lost touch with the people it was meant to serve.” His move adds to a wave of recent defections, underlining deep unrest within the party.

What Jonathan Gullis said; Criticism of Tory policies and vision

In his announcement, Gullis cited multiple reasons for leaving: failure to control both legal and illegal migration, the impact of net-zero energy policies on household bills, and threats to jobs in traditional industries, especially the ceramics sector in Stoke-on-Trent. He accused the Conservatives of losing the public’s trust by straying from their original mandate.

He expressed belief that only Reform UK, under Nigel Farage, has “the vision and courage” to restore Britain’s pride and deliver “real change.” For Gullis, the shift reflects a fundamental change in what he sees as his political home.

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Gullis’ political background: From Tory MP to Conservatives’ deputy chair

Gullis served as MP for Stoke-on-Trent North from 2019 until 2024, representing one of the “Red Wall” constituencies that shifted historically from Labour to the Conservatives in the 2019 landslide.

During his time in Parliament, he also briefly held the role of Schools Standards Minister in 2022 and was appointed deputy chairman of the Conservative Party in 2024, signalling his rising profile and influence within the party.

Since losing his seat in the 2024 general election, he remained politically active. Prior to defecting, he reportedly criticized the party’s direction and suggested he was “politically homeless.”

Defections intensify as Reform UK gains ground

Gullis becomes the 20th current or former Conservative MP to join Reform UK, marking a sizeable wave of attrition for a party already wrestling with internal turmoil.

His defection comes amid growing public dissatisfaction over energy costs, economic policies, and immigration,  issues he cited directly in his statement. For Reform UK and Farage leadership, the move represents a symbolic and strategic gain.

Locally, the defection also boosts Reform’s stance in Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas. A Reform UK city councillor welcomed Gullis as a “huge boost” for the party at the grassroots level.

What this means for the Conservatives; Reputation, cohesion, and vote risk

For the Conservative Party, Gullis’s departure raises fresh questions about its ability to maintain unity and retain public trust. As more former MPs abandon ship, critics argue the party may be losing its identity, and its voter base, at a critical moment ahead of future elections.

Some within Reform UK, however, caution against embracing all defectors uncritically. According to one Reform official, the party must vet incoming members to ensure they truly believe in the cause, and not just see Reform as a political lifeboat.

FAQ

Who is Jonathan Gullis?

Jonathan Gullis is a former Conservative MP for Stoke-on-Trent North, served as deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, and briefly held the role of Schools Standards Minister. He lost his seat in the 2024 general election.

Why did Jonathan Gullis leave the Conservatives?

Gullis said he left because he believes the Conservative Party “lost touch” with voters and failed to manage issues like migration, energy policy, and jobs in traditional industries, eroding public trust.

Which party did he join?

He joined Reform UK, making him the 20th current or former Conservative MP to defect to the party.

When did the defection occur?

The defection was announced on 1 December 2025.

What were his criticisms of the Conservative Party?

He criticized the Conservatives’ handling of legal and illegal migration, the impact of net-zero energy policies on household bills, and perceived threats to jobs in sectors like ceramics in Stoke-on-Trent.

Does Jonathan Gullis hold any current public office?

Yes, as of the defection, he is the Mayor of Kidsgrove.

How significant is his defection politically?

It represents both a symbolic and strategic loss for the Conservatives, a former senior figure abandoning ship at a moment of internal instability, and a gain for Reform UK as it seeks to broaden influence ahead of coming elections.

What is Reform UK’s reaction to the defections?

Reform UK welcomed the defections but is reportedly cautious about vetting new entrants to ensure they align with the party’s values, rather than simply seeking a new political platform.

Could more Conservative MPs still defect?

Given recent trends and growing dissatisfaction among some former Tories, many analysts believe further defections are possible, particularly among those who feel politically homeless or disagree with current party direction.