Senior Tory urges Elon Musk not to back Reform UK
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Conservative shadow minister Andrew Griffith has encouraged Elon Musk to reconsider supporting the Conservative Party instead of contributing to Reform UK. He emphasized the party's commitment to low taxes and its stance against "woke" culture.
During a meeting at Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Monday, the tech billionaire talked about the possibility of contributing to Reform UK. This discussion took place with the party's leader, Nigel Farage, and its newly appointed treasurer, Nick Candy, as reported by Farage.
The possibility of a significant contribution from the wealthiest person on the planet to Farage's populist right-leaning party has raised concerns among the Conservatives. They worry that Reform UK could overshadow them in the upcoming general election.
This development coincides with the UK’s election regulator advocating for legal reforms to safeguard the electoral process from outside meddling.
Griffith referred to Musk as an exceptionally skilled entrepreneur with investments in the UK. He expressed worries about matters like freedom of expression and what he termed the “woke mind virus.”
In an interview with the Financial Times on Wednesday, Griffith remarked to Musk or Nick, "Take a look at the actions of the Conservative party."
He claimed that the Conservative Party was the most effective means of opposing Sir Keir Starmer's Labour government.
Griffith advised, "If you truly want to challenge this socialist government, which many believe poses a risk to free speech, take the time to thoroughly examine all your options before choosing a specific path."
The shadow business secretary highlighted his previous position as the City of London minister last year, where he assisted individuals, including Farage, who claimed they were unable to access bank accounts due to their political beliefs.
He also highlighted Tory leader Kemi Badenoch's criticisms of the recently shut NHS Tavistock clinic in London, which focused on child gender identity.
The possibility of Musk supporting Reform UK gained attention this week when he was seen alongside Farage and former Conservative donor and real estate mogul Candy at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.
Farage shared the image on Musk's X platform on Tuesday, stating, "Britain requires change." Musk replied, "Absolutely."
Griffith chose not to share his thoughts on whether he hoped Musk, a well-known supporter of Trump, would make a donation to the Conservative Party instead, explaining that this was not within his responsibilities.
However, the shadow business secretary mentioned that he had conversations with key members of the upcoming Trump administration and exchanged ideas about the importance of using taxpayer funds more efficiently.
"I'm not claiming that I was rushing to Mar-a-Lago and posting updates about it, but I did spend a week in Washington, engaging with individuals connected to the prospective administration and discussing the future of government efficiency," Griffith remarked.
On Wednesday, a representative for Badenoch mentioned that the Tory leader is a big admirer of Elon Musk and his achievements with X.
Badenoch endorsed the idea of a British equivalent of “Doge,” which is Trump’s proposed Department of Government Efficiency that will be co-headed by Musk, according to her spokesman. This advisory group is designed to reduce red tape and streamline government processes.
According to her spokesperson, Badenoch thinks that there has been excessive regulation in the UK and that the typical response tends to be to increase government intervention.
He didn't specify how much money Badenoch would save through the UK efficiency program, but he mentioned that there are areas where spending can be reduced.
Experts believe that Musk may have the opportunity to contribute to Reform UK or another political party in Britain.
This is due to the fact that UK law prohibits foreign individuals from donating directly to British political parties. However, the regulations permit companies to make donations, as long as they are registered and established in the UK and conduct business within the country. Musk has business interests in the UK, including the British branch of X.
On Wednesday, the Electoral Commission announced that it was discussing with the government potential changes to the law regarding donations from British companies. The aim is to allow only profits generated within the UK to be contributed to political parties. Nevertheless, Downing Street indicated that any reforms are not expected to happen soon.
In the meantime, officials at Downing Street chose not to provide any statements regarding Musk's outspoken criticism of Starmer.
The spokesperson for the prime minister stated that Starmer has made it clear that they are eager to collaborate with President Trump and his entire team.
