Ruth Davidson Warns Against Farage Joining Tories, Foresees ‘Battle for the Soul’ of the Party Amidst Election Tensions

'Over my dead body': Ruth Davidson asserts it would be 'foolish' for Conservatives to welcome Farage

The ex-chief of the Scottish Conservatives warns of an internal conflict within the party should the Tories face defeat in the upcoming general election.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024, 5:

Ex-leader of the Scottish Conservatives Ruth Davidson has vehemently stated that permitting Nigel Farage to become a member of the Conservative Party would be an utterly foolish decision, declaring it would occur only over her dead body.

At the unveiling of his party's policy agenda, the leader of Reform UK outlined his strategy to position his party as a serious challenger to Labour, which is projected to be the next ruling government based on current poll results.

👆 Tap here to subscribe to Electoral Dysfunction on your favorite podcast platform 👇

Mr. Farage stated that he does not plan to join the Conservative Party should he secure a position in the Essex constituency of Clacton on July 4th, yet he did not completely dismiss the possibility of joining at a later date.

During an appearance on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast hosted by Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, former Labour adviser Ayesha Hazarika expressed her belief that he will secure a victory and subsequently switch allegiance to the Conservatives.

"She believes he will mirror Trump's approach," she commented, suggesting he will dominate the Conservative Party similarly to how Donald Trump took control of the Republican Party.

However, Baroness Davidson indicated that there would be a significant dispute among members regarding the decision to permit Mr. Farage's membership.

Further Details on the 2024 General Election

Ed Davey claims legal immigration levels are 'excessive' yet denies his policies will exacerbate the issue

Wealthy philanthropist John Caudwell has, for the first time, thrown his support behind the Labour Party, citing his frustration with the Conservative

"It's time for a mature discussion on immigration"

Associated Subjects:

"I was about to say 'over my dead body'," she remarked.

"It would be completely foolish for the party to allow an individual who has openly opposed it and whose declared goal is to dismantle the Conservative Party to join and attempt a complete takeover, acting like a parasitic worm that dominates its host."

"Absolutely not. I believe many Conservatives will indeed choose to remain and contend."

For an optimal viewing experience, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

Baroness Davidson expressed her belief that the Conservative Party could shift further to the right should they be defeated in the upcoming general election, potentially leading to an internal battle over the party's core identity.

"She suggested that while some may recognize their faction is not dominant, significant disruptions are still occurring."

"The possibility of Nigel Farage assuming leadership could potentially lead to a catastrophic outcome, and it's a cause worth battling for."

Stay informed about the most recent developments in the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The individuals running for office in Clacton include:

• Matthew Bensilum, from the Liberal Democrats

• Craig Jamieson, representing the Climate Party

• Tony Mack, Unaffiliated

• Natasha Osben represents the Green Party

• Jovan Owusu-Nepaul, representing the Labour Party

• Tasos Papanastasiou, representing the Heritage Party

• Andrew Pemberton, representing the UK Independence Party

• Giles Watling, member of the Conservative Party

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information About Sky News

Services Offered by Sky News

Channels Under Sky

Additional Sites from Sky