Reform UK elects Scottish deputy leader

Reform UK Scotland has elected its first deputy leader.

The party’s Holyrood group announced Thomas Kerr to serve under leader Lord Malcom Offord.

Kerr, a former Tory councillor who defected to Reform last year, is one of the party’s 17 MSPs to be elected to Holyrood on regional lists.

Lord Offord had been appointed by Nigel Farage and was formally made leader on Saturday.

Kerr was Lord Offord’s de facto deputy and was widely considered to be up for the role, which he said he was “honoured” to accept.

“Across Scotland, people are crying out for honest leadership, practical policies, and politicians who are prepared to stand up for ordinary working people,” Kerr said.

“Reform UK Scotland is building a movement that will challenge the status quo and bring real change to Scottish politics.

“I look forward to working with colleagues across the country to grow our support and deliver a stronger voice for Scotland.”

Lord Offord said: “Thomas is a talented and dedicated politician who understands the concerns of people right across the country. His dedication and passion for delivering change make him the ideal choice as deputy leader.

“Together, we will continue building a credible and ambitious movement focused on lower taxes, safer communities, economic growth, and restoring trust in politics.”