Former Tory leads Nigel Farage’s party to joint second place at Holyrood

Reform UK, Nigel Farage’s party, achieved joint second place in the Scottish Parliament elections, marking a dramatic increase in its influence. The party now holds significant representation after previously having just one Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), following the defection of former Scottish Conservative leader Graham Simpson. Lord Offord, appointed as Reform UK’s Scottish leader in January 2026, led the party’s campaign. He previously served as a Conservative minister in the Scotland Office and as a business minister under Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak. His defection from the Conservatives in December 2025 was seen as a major boost for Reform UK’s ambitions in Scotland. During the election, Lord Offord openly discussed his wealth, stating he owned six houses, five cars, and six boats, while emphasizing his self-made success. He criticized the SNP government and vowed to restore Scotland’s prosperity, framing his party as a fresh alternative to both Labour and the Conservatives. The campaign also saw Lord Offord reference Deacon Blue’s song *Dignity*, claiming its message of hard work aligned with his vision for Scotland. The band later distanced itself from his use of the song. Earlier in his career, Lord Offord apologized for a 2018 remark about George Michael, calling it a ‘clumsy mistake.’ Reform UK’s rise in Scotland reflects broader shifts in political allegiance, with Lord Offord positioning the party as a voice for economic ambition and anti-establishment sentiment.