Two Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole councillors have left the Conservatives and joined Reform UK.
Councillor Cameron Adams and Councillor Duane Farr have both announced their move, becoming the first Reform UK members to sit on BCP Council.
The announcement came on the final day of the Conservative Party Autumn Conference, with Reform UK confirming the news in a post on X welcoming both councillors.
The change follows two earlier defections over the summer, when Councillor Gillian Martin and Councillor Michelle Dower, both formerly Labour, chose to sit as independents.
It means all three councillors representing Kinson ward are now no longer part of the political parties they were elected under in the 2023 local elections.
In reaction, councillor Patrick Canavan, Labour Group leader, said: “These two councillors were elected as Conservatives and if they want to represent another political party then they should resign their seats and stand again in a by-election.”
Cllr Canavan added: “These defections are just a symptom of the collapse of the Conservative Party nationally and we have seen a number of these to coincide with the Conservative Party Conference this week. Their ship is sinking with many councillors across the country bailing out.”
“I believe that this leaves them without any mandate to be the official opposition in BCP.”
Councillor Toby Slade posted on X saying: “Two now-ex Conservative BCP councillors may have chosen a different path, but my mission remains unchanged. To deliver real results for residents, protect local services, and advocate for our communities.
“Now more than ever, we need steady, principled leadership rooted in service.
“I remain fully committed to the Conservative values that brought me into public life. Faith, family, and community.”
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