Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen has nailed his colours to the mast amid speculation that he is considering a defection to Reform UK.

The Tory mayor said that he has “always” been a Conservative and had a pop at Reform’s economic credibility when asked about a potential defection.

Reporting from the Financial Times has outlined so far “unsuccessful” attempts from Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, to get Lord Houchen to jump ship to the political party that is leading the polls nationally. 

The FT said that Lord Houchen was approached by Reform towards the end of 2025 and that he participated in a meeting with Mr Farage and a staff member in........

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