Reform UK’s Take‑off: One Council’s Ambush Gives Others a Playbook
In a nutshell, after the High Court green‑lit Epping Forest Council’s bid to evict “small‑boat stragglers” from the Bell Hotel, a ripple of action has started across the country. Twelve Reform‑UK led councils are now fearing the visitor vibes and are pulling their legal teams for advice.
Local Leaders Play the “People‑Power” Game
It starts with Nigel Far James Farage, senior Reform‑UK figure. He’s told his 12 councils that the Epping strategy is a “starter kit” and that they should consult legal counsel for how to handle the influx of migrants in hotels.
Taking the mic from Andrew Husband (Reform‑UK Durham), the leader says, “We’ll arm our legal squads with a defence blueprint the next time a move like this hits our region.” He calls the High Court ruling a prime mover for the “people‑power” narrative that the government glosses over. “If we see a similar scheme emerging elsewhere, best for us in County Durham to block it,” he added.
Reform‑UK’s Rallying Cry
- Laura Jones, Welsh Senedd member, cheered the result, describing it as a win for “commonsense” and the majority who worry about what’s happening.
- She urged that undetected young strikers shouldn’t roam freely—“They must be detained and sent home.”
- Farage echoed this in the Daily Telegraph, urging localities to take “everything in their power” to mirror Epping’s actions.
- Deputy Richard Tice spoke on Times Radio: “All 12 councils will instruct their legal arms to gear up for every route available post‑ruling.” He emphasised the injunction’s temporary nature but the surge of legal options still at hand.
- Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stiffened the stance: “Every illegal arrival must be taken out, every weak spot closed, and communities must stay safe.”
What’s the Bottom Line?
One justice decision got a domino effect across council lines. While the conversation may look top‑down, it’s really a grassroots push to hold the local system accountable for how unruly arrivals are managed.
As these councils tighten their legal lines, the question remains: will the rest of England answer the call, or will the policy‑lifting paragraphs of the bravest set pace for others?
