A new poll reveals a significant divide within Reform UK party leadership regarding immigration policies while highlighting overwhelming public support for deportation measures.
According to Breitbart News, a recent survey by Find Out Now shows 84 percent of British voters support deporting migrants who commit violent crimes, with even higher numbers among Reform UK party supporters.
The poll demonstrates strong public backing for stricter immigration enforcement, with 85 percent favoring the deportation of sex offenders and 66 percent supporting the removal of illegal immigrants. These figures align closely with Reform UK's manifesto, which advocates for the immediate deportation of foreign criminals after serving prison sentences.
The issue has sparked tension between party leader Nigel Farage and suspended MP Rupert Lowe, revealing deeper disagreements about the party's approach to immigration enforcement. Farage has expressed concern about using certain terminology, specifically requesting the removal of phrases like "repatriation" and "mass deportations" from public speeches.
Lowe, who was recently suspended from the party, has taken a more aggressive stance on deportation policies. According to his recent statements, he advocates for the removal of all illegal migrants regardless of the total number affected.
The suspended MP shared his position with the media, stating:
If you are here illegally, you must be deported. If that results in one million or more eventual removals then that is what must happen. That must be the aim. It is that, or an effective amnesty. I choose deportations.
Farage has defended his position by explaining that certain language choices could mistakenly suggest the deportation of law-abiding citizens with foreign backgrounds, a message he wants to avoid.
The Find Out Now survey results indicate nearly unanimous support among Reform UK voters for deportation measures, with 99 percent backing the removal of both violent criminals and illegal immigrants.
These findings emerge as Reform UK grapples with internal leadership challenges. The suspension of Rupert Lowe followed his public criticism of Farage and allegations of threats made against party chairman Zia Yusuf.
The controversy has drawn attention from prominent figures outside the party, including X (formerly Twitter) CEO Elon Musk, who has suggested Lowe as a potential replacement for Farage in the party leadership role.
The strong public support for deportation measures appears to transcend party lines, with majorities across the political spectrum backing stronger enforcement actions against criminal migrants and illegal entrants.
The survey results suggest that while Reform UK leadership debates terminology and presentation, the British public maintains clear preferences for strict immigration enforcement measures. These findings could influence future policy discussions and political positioning among UK parties.
The ongoing dispute between Farage and Lowe has exposed nuanced differences in approach rather than fundamental disagreements about deportation policies. Both leaders support the deportation of criminals and illegal migrants, though they differ in their communication strategies. Farage claims Lowe's actions are aimed at destroying Reform UK and gaining favor with Elon Musk. The controversy has highlighted the delicate balance political leaders must maintain between strong policy positions and careful messaging on sensitive issues.