Reform UK's Chief Whip Lee Anderson has announced that Conservative MP Danny Kruger has joined their party, describing the move as significant for their political ambitions.
During an appearance on GB News, Mr Anderson expressed enthusiasm about the defection whilst acknowledging the magnitude of Mr Kruger's decision.
"We're very, very happy with Danny's defection," Mr Anderson stated, though he admitted being "as shocked as anybody" when he made the switch.
The Chief Whip characterised the move as a major step for someone he described as "True Blue," suggesting that "cut him open and it will probably say 'Conservative'."
Lee Anderson told GB News he is delighted about the defection
|GB NEWS / PA
Mr Anderson indicated that the 50-year-old would play a crucial role in Reform UK's future plans, stating he "has a big job on his hands" in helping prepare the party for potential Government responsibilities.
Mr Anderson lavished praise on Reform's newest MP during the interview, calling him "a true patriot" and "a Brexiteer" as well as "a God-fearing man, a good man".
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The Reform UK Chief Whip emphasised Mr Kruger's extensive parliamentary experience, noting he had "been around this place for donkeys' years."
"Mr. Kruger is one of the finest parliamentarians I've ever come across in my five or six years working in that place," Mr Anderson declared.
Nigel Farage has announced that Danny Kruger has defected to Reform UK | PAHe highlighted Mr Kruger's qualities as "a good man, an honest man" who was "always got time for anybody, willing to help you".
Mr Anderson specifically praised Mr Kruger's contributions during the Assisted Dying Bill debates, describing how "he was great during that debate" and "was there to help and advise and encourage".
Mr Anderson firmly rejected suggestions that Reform UK would open its doors to a wave of Conservative defectors.
"I just will pull you up on one thing about these so-called floodgates. There are no floodgates at Reform UK; we were very selective in who we have," he insisted.
Lee Anderson spoke to Martin Daubney about the defection
|GB NEWS
The Chief Whip emphasised the party's high standards for new members, stating: "We're very selective. We only have the brightest and the best in our party."
Despite this selective approach, Mr Anderson hinted that additional Conservative MPs might follow Mr Kruger's lead. "I'll tell you what Danny Kruger, he might be the first of a few to come. I don't know, but, like I say, the floodgates aren't open," he said.
Mr Anderson launched a scathing attack on the traditional political establishment, claiming that "the writing's on the wall for the Conservative Party."
He expressed disappointment that despite some quality backbench MPs remaining, the party had lost its way.
The Reform UK Chief Whip accused both major parties of betraying voters. "Sadly, the Tory party and the Labour Party a year ago, are not delivering the promises. They're just turning their back on the British public," he said.
Mr Anderson criticised what he termed the "uni-party system," arguing that politicians "get elected" and "as soon as they get into Number 10, they completely ignore the British public".
He contrasted this with Reform UK's approach, insisting: "We're not about that" and "we're going to deliver on our promises."