Lib Dems Aim to Counter Reform UK's Rise, Criticize BBC Coverage
At the Liberal Democrats' autumn conference in Bournemouth, party leader Sir Ed Davey outlined a strategy to challenge the growing influence of Nigel Farage's Reform UK party. He also voiced concerns regarding the BBC's coverage of Reform UK, accusing the broadcaster of insufficient scrutiny.
Taking on Reform UK
Sir Ed Davey emphasized the need to "take the fight to Reform," arguing that the party offers "radical change... in tune with British values," contrasting this with what he described as Farage's vision to make the UK "be like Trump's America." To highlight the party's stance, the Lib Dems were handing out Lego models of "plastic patriot" Nigel Farage at their conference.
He addressed concerns about illegal immigration, suggesting a national emergency declaration to tackle the asylum claim backlog. "If we get rid of that asylum backlog and close the asylum hotels, I think that would reassure many communities," Sir Ed stated. He also highlighted the cost of living crisis, emphasizing the Lib Dems' energy bill reduction policies.
Criticism of BBC Coverage
Sir Ed Davey criticized the BBC's coverage of Reform UK, alleging that the broadcaster had "copy-and-pasted" press releases in online articles. When challenged on whether this was a "falsehood" and resembled the "Trumpian language" he condemned, Sir Ed clarified, "No, I don't think we are." He said he believes the way that Trump shuts down the media is wrong and said that he does not think they are doing the same.
He acknowledged some improvements but maintained that the BBC has displayed "poor practice in parts" and said that "when it's not performing that role it's not unreasonable is it for people to call it out." A BBC spokesperson responded, "The BBC is committed to achieving due impartiality in all its output and gives appropriate levels of scrutiny to all political parties."
Local Strategies to Counter Reform
The Liberal Democrats hosted a debate focusing on strategies to counter Reform UK's influence at the local level. Local councillors from the "Reform Watch" scrutiny team, established after the May local elections, emphasized the importance of focusing on local issues. Councillor Mike Ross of Hull City Council said his party had tried to reframe Reform's animosity towards net zero goals as a threat to green investment. Kent councillor Anthony Hook urged the party to "up our game and create more content of our own" on social media.
