Reform UK Candidate Calls for Imprisonment of the Late Queen, Drawing Criticism

Mark Wade, a local election candidate from Reform UK representing Chorley Rural West, has ignited outrage with his derogatory remarks about the late Queen Elizabeth. In a Facebook post celebrating her status as the longest-reigning monarch, he accused her of "scrounging" during her lengthy reign and expressed a desire to have her jailed along with her family, whom he also labeled as "spongers." Following the announcement of another royal baby on the way, Wade remarked on the financial implications of the new addition, further intensifying the backlash.

Criticism of Wade's comments has been swift and sharp, with many labeling his statements as offensive and detrimental to the image and values of Reform UK, which is led by Nigel Farage. Labour MP Mike Tapp denounced Wade's remarks, asserting that they undermine Farage's positioning of the party as one that embodies British patriotism. He challenged the legitimacy of Farage's leadership and called for immediate action against Wade, insisting that allowing such behavior reflects poorly on the party and its supposed values.

Further criticism came from James Frith, another Labour MP, who expressed disbelief at Wade's statements and demanded actions from Reform UK to distance themselves from such comments. Frith raised concerns about the party's vetting process, which had previously been touted as strict, especially in light of past issues that have plagued some of Reform's candidates. Amid an avalanche of backlash, a spokesperson from Reform UK responded, refuting the criticisms and asserting that Labour, which has faced its share of controversies, should not lecture them on patriotism. The incident has drawn attention to the party's candidate selection process and its broader claims of representing British values in the political landscape.