Reform UK’s Richard Tice said the party’s decision to discipline a lawmaker who’s been critical of its leader Nigel Farage over bullying allegations was the right one to make, although it was “unfortunate” and “difficult,

Reform UK has accused Rupert Lowe, one of its MP s, of threatening Mr Yusuf, and has reported him to the police, who say they are investigating. The party has also appointed a senior lawyer to look into claims of bullying in his office. Reform UK has also suspended Mr Lowe, reducing its parliamentary strength to just four.

Former Reform UK deputy leader Ben Habib has not ruled out launching his own splinter group with the ousted Rupert Lowe.