Nigel Farage has candidly stated that Reform UK is not fully prepared to take the reins of power, describing the party as “halfway ready” to govern Britain. His remarks come as the party’s polling lead has narrowed, with increasing public scepticism regarding their readiness for government ahead of the next general election.
Reform UK’s Current Standing
In an interview with Laura Kuenssberg for the BBC documentary *Reform: Ready to Rule?*, Farage conceded that despite the party’s sustained lead in polls and the recent influx of former Conservative cabinet ministers, they are not yet equipped to run the country. “We are halfway towards being ready,” he declared, highlighting the need for further preparation.
Recent data from an Ipsos poll reveals that only 25% of the British public believe Reform UK is capable of forming the next government, with a significant 58% disagreeing. This marks a slight decline in confidence compared to September 2025, when 53% of respondents expressed doubt about the party’s readiness.
Preparation for Governance
Farage has previously signalled his intention to bolster the party’s readiness for government during last year’s conference, where he introduced a new department dedicated to this goal. He appointed Zia Yusuf as the head of policy, emphasising the urgency of the party’s preparations as the next election could occur as early as 2027.
“All I can do is promise that I will give this everything, I will give this absolutely everything that I’ve got,” he stated last September. “No one cares more about the state of this country than I do. I am determined to do something about it.” The party has also launched a website, under the domain ‘preparingforgovernment’, which asserts their ambition to lead the next government and invites supporters to assist in this effort.
Political Landscape and Recent Defections
During the interview, Farage was asked about the recent defections from prominent Conservative figures such as Robert Jenrick and Suella Braverman, which he acknowledged had bolstered Reform UK’s position. “Yes, they have lost the argument in their own party,” he admitted. “You are absolutely right, which is why they’re coming to us, and why the centre-right of British politics is uniting around reform.”
The party is also eyeing a potential parliamentary seat in Gorton and Denton, following the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne. Speculation suggests that Reform UK could secure this seat, previously held by Labour with a 51% share of the vote in 2024.
Why it Matters
Farage’s admission about Reform UK’s readiness reflects broader uncertainties within the party and the electorate. As political dynamics shift, the party must solidify its position and public trust if it hopes to translate its current polling advantage into electoral success. The coming months will be crucial for Reform UK as they work to address public concerns and demonstrate their capability to govern effectively.
