Reform UK hopeful frames Makerfield by-election as a "win-win" scenario

Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate in the Makerfield by-election, has described the contest as a "win-win situation" for his personal campaign. He explained that regardless of the outcome, the poll allows him to challenge the status quo; even in the event of a loss, he believes he will have "given the Labour Party a bloody nose."

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who stepped down to facilitate his party colleague Andy Burnham’s run for Parliament and his potential bid for party leadership.

Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, Kenyon emphasized his motivation, stating, "If I lose it I'm just a working class lad who has given two fingers to the establishment." The former Army reservist, who is one of fourteen candidates vying for the seat on June 18, also addressed recent controversy regarding comments he made about TV presenter Carol Vorderman.

Vorderman had requested an apology after Kenyon reacted to a sexually explicit post about her with a thumbs-up and laughing emoji, alongside the remark, "He's only saying what we're all thinking." Kenyon characterized the remark as "squaddie humour," noting that the comment was directed at a former military colleague. While he admitted the comment was "disgusting" and a "crass joke," he insisted it was intended as banter to lighten the mood.

Despite the media attention, the self-employed plumber claims he is not overwhelmed by the spotlight. "It's water off a duck's back," he said. He reiterated that whether he wins or loses, he can "hold my head up high that at least I had the guts to throw my hat in the ring."

Kenyon stated that his entry into politics in 2023 was driven by the perception that local issues had been "ignored" for "donkey's years." "We've been ignored for donkey's years, and I thought instead of moaning about it on the sidelines what I did is throw my hat in the ring and have a go," he said. "Whatever happens at least I can say I have tried."

Focusing on local concerns rather than global geopolitics, Kenyon outlined a platform that includes campaigning for a new hospital in Wigan, arguing the current facility is "not fit for purpose." He also pledged to oppose housing developments on green belt land and houses of multiple occupation (HMOs), which he believes strain local resources.

When questioned about the funding for a new hospital, Kenyon suggested that money "can be found when needed," pointing to the over £2bn annually spent on hotels for asylum seekers as an example of reallocation potential.

On the topic of immigration, Kenyon advocated for "sensible immigration." He welcomed those who contribute to the country, stating, "If anybody is coming in to the country they are very welcome to come but we need you to offer us something basically."

He stressed his connection to the community, asserting that residents can relate to him because "I am one of them." He explained, "I go to the same shops, kids go to the same schools, same football teams, I walk the same streets and go to the same pubs."

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 11:50:55 UTC