Reform MP James McMurdock gives speech at conference

MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, James McMurdock, gave his speech at the conference in the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, using it to call for “transformative changes in British politics” and to “celebrate the rise of the Reform movement.”

Speech - James McMurdock (Image: Reform UK) Mr McMurdock, reflecting on the election said: “While the major news outlets had repeatedly stated a Labour landslide, the reality on the ground was very different.

“Reform supporters showed incredible enthusiasm and against the odds we secured a major victory,” he said, adding that his motivation to join the party was frustration with politics in the country and he had been inspired by Reform’s policies.

The MP also used the speech to address challenges surrounding the Lower Thames Crossing project, the £10 billion infrastructure project that would connect Kent and Essex through a tunnel below the River Thames.

Conference - James McMurdock takes the floor at the Birmingham conference (Image: Reform UK)

He criticised both the Tory and Labour parties for “their handling the issue” and promised to continue advocating for his constituents.

Mr McMurdock also condemned Thurrock Council, in the wake of their £1.5 billion investment scandal.

He said: “Politics is broken, Thurrock deserves better, Great Britain deserves better, and Reform is here to deliver.”

He ended his speech forecasting a “bright future” for Reform, adding: “The fight is tough, but we have shown it is possible to beat the establishment.

“If you vote Reform, you get real, skilled, and honest people, here to represent you.”

Mr McMurdock also declared that more Reform MPs would join him in parliament, and he could envision Reform leader and Clacton MP, Nigel Farage, as next prime minister in 2029.

A spokesman added: “Since his election, McMurdock has been active in challenging key government policies, particularly concerning public safety and the economy.

“He expressed outrage over government plans to release 5,500 criminals back onto the streets, proposing instead to deport foreign nationals serving time in UK jails.

“He also voiced strong opposition to cuts in the Winter Fuel Allowance, emphasising that the government’s increased foreign aid budget should instead be redirected to support British pensioners.”