Reform UK Conference Shows Party Aiming for 2029 Power

Post by : Monika

Photo: Reuters

Nigel Farage’s political party, Reform UK, held a big two-day conference in Birmingham called “The Next Step.” More than 10,000 people attended. These included ordinary supporters, former Conservative politicians, and local leaders. Farage used this event to show that his party is growing stronger and is preparing to be taken seriously as a future government. His target is to compete strongly in the 2029 general election.

Why This Conference Matters
1. Growing Support

Reform UK may only have four MPs in Parliament out of 650, but its public support is rising quickly. Recent polls show the party ahead of the Labour government. The membership has now reached about 240,000 people, and the party has taken control of 12 local councils. For a relatively new political force, these are major achievements.

2. Focus on Immigration and Free Speech

Farage continues to focus on two core issues: immigration and free speech. He wants strict action to control immigration and has suggested removing some human rights laws to allow mass deportations. He also argues strongly against people being arrested for things they post online, saying this limits freedom of expression.

What’s New at the Conference

This year’s conference showed that Reform UK is trying to appear more professional. Earlier events sometimes seemed disorganized, but this one was smoother and better planned.

Some well-known businesses such as TikTok, JCB, and Heathrow Airport had a presence at the conference, either through panels or small sponsorships. However, most companies kept a cautious distance. Many sent only junior staff to attend, showing they are still unsure about being fully linked with the party.

Farage and International Links

Nigel Farage has also been busy outside the UK. Recently, he traveled to the United States where he met Donald Trump. He also spoke at a hearing in Washington, where he called for stronger free speech protections in the UK. This trip caused debate at home, with some critics saying it was wrong to focus on foreign politics instead of Britain’s own challenges.

Building a Serious Political Image

Leaders of Reform UK believe they are now at a “tipping point.” They want people to see them not just as a protest party but as a real option for government. Donations from businesses are still lower than those received by Labour or the Conservatives, but Reform UK is confident that support will grow as they continue to show momentum.

What This Means for the Future

Reform UK’s message is clear: they are planning for the long term, not just the next election. By 2029, they hope to be in a position to challenge for power. Whether or not they succeed, the conference showed that British politics is changing. A new party is rising, and both Labour and the Conservatives will need to respond to its growing influence.

• Why This Matters for Students and Young People
• New political choices: Reform UK gives voters another option beyond Labour or Conservatives.
• Debates on immigration and speech: These issues affect schools, communities, and everyday discussions.
• Image and media: The way parties present themselves at conferences influences trust and public opinion.
• Global politics: Farage’s ties with Trump show how politics in one country can link to leaders abroad.

Topic Details

• Conference Name    “The Next Step” in Birmingham
• Attendance Over 10,000 people
• Party Strength 4 MPs, 240,000 members, 12 local councils
• Key Issues Immigration, free speech
• International Links Farage met Trump, spoke in Washington
• Business Presence Companies cautious, small involvement
• Goal Be a serious option for 2029 government

Reform UK