Farage Rejects Badenoch's Coalition Proposal Ahead of Local Elections

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, suggested that Tory councillors could form coalitions with Reform UK after the upcoming local elections, emphasizing the need for local leaders to prioritize the needs of their communities. However, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage swiftly rejected this idea, stating that his party has 'no intention' of entering any coalitions with the Conservatives, citing the Tories' historical failures in government. Both parties have ruled out a formal pact at the national level, despite some calls for unity to challenge Labour in future elections. Farage's remarks come as Reform UK aims to increase its representation in local councils during the May 1 elections, where the Conservatives are expected to face significant losses from their previous strong performance. Labour and Liberal Democrat leaders criticized the proposed coalition, arguing it would perpetuate the 'chaos' caused by Conservative governance. The political landscape remains contentious as both parties navigate their strategies leading up to the local elections.