Reform UK Outlines Rapid Financial and Immigration Plans at Party Conference

Reform UK treasury spokesperson Robert Jenrick stated that the party could begin legislating financial policies within a week of winning a general election, rather than waiting for a formal budget. While Jenrick noted that Reform would hold a budget within 100 days of entering government, he suggested the party might start implementing policies immediately. This approach would deviate from the standard practice of providing the Office for Budget Responsibility with at least 70 days of notice to prepare economic forecasts.

Regarding tax policy, Jenrick expressed a desire for tax cuts in the first budget but stopped short of a guarantee. He cited the need to avoid the mistakes of Liz Truss and the mini budget, stating that the party must prioritize its ambitions for cutting taxes on business and work.

On immigration and foreign policy, Jenrick announced that a Reform government would abolish indefinite leave to remain to create a more challenging path to citizenship. He also pledged to slash foreign aid to 1 billion pounds per year, asserting that contracts would be ended within days of taking office to demonstrate fiscal seriousness to financial markets.

Reporting on the event differed in scope and context. A center leaning source focused primarily on the potential disruption of the budget timeline. A center left leaning source provided broader context, noting that the party has recently fallen to third place in the polls and highlighting ongoing scrutiny regarding funding received by Nigel Farage and the party.