The upstart Reform UK party has emerged as a serious contender in British politics. The right-wing populist movement is threatening to overtake the ruling Labour Party in the polls and its leader, Nigel Farage,

Critics say party’s rules make it ‘close to impossible’ to remove the former MEP from the role despite calls from the likes of Elon Musk

But despite his following, there are four reasons that may explain why Mr Farage is steering clear of Robinson: He didn’t want him to join UKIP, His prison sentences for contempt of court, he is could harm Reform’s popularity, and the misconception in the US that he is in prison for exposing grooming gangs.

The last week has seen Farage and Reform top a national poll and hold another packed rally as their political momentum continues to gather steam. But the embarrassing row with Elon Musk and issues around Tommy Robinson exposed a number of serious problems for Reform behind the scenes,

Elon Musk has said Reform UK needs a new leader because Nigel Farage “doesn’t have what it takes”. The tech billionaire’s comments came just hours after Farage described him as “a hero”. His latest intervention on UK politics casts serious doubt on claims he was prepared to make a substantial donation to Reform.

Nigel Farage says Reform UK isn't anti-immigration and will never have dealings with far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson whose release from prison billionaire Elon Musk repeatedly called for this year.

Kemi Badenoch rebuffed calls for the Conservatives to merge with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. She also spoke on mistakes by the last Conservative governments over Brexit as she promised if elected by the British public she would “give you your country back.