Reform UK has appointed former TV presenter and medical doctor David Bull as its new chairman, party leader Nigel Farage announced at a Westminster press conference.
Dr. Bull, previously known for hosting programmes such as Watchdog, Tomorrow’s World, and Most Haunted Live!, steps into the role following the resignation of businessman Zia Yusuf. Yusuf left last week amid internal disagreements over the party’s stance on the burka but has since returned to lead a new initiative on public spending.
At the event, Farage emphasized that Dr. Bull's primary responsibility would be to provide leadership and inspiration, not to handle day-to-day operations. “His job is to lead our volunteer army with energy and enthusiasm,” Farage said. “He’s a terrific communicator, and his television background will help deliver our message clearly and effectively.”
Zia Yusuf, who returned to the party just two days after stepping down, voiced strong support for Bull’s appointment. “The party has moved beyond its start-up phase,” Yusuf said. “Now we need someone who can energize the grassroots and bring people together. David is the right person for that.”
Yusuf will now head Reform UK’s new cost-cutting initiative, nicknamed the “UK Doge,” inspired by a U.S. government efficiency programme previously associated with Elon Musk. Despite Musk's exit from the American version, Farage said polling showed strong UK support for the Doge brand, and the party opted to retain the name.
Regarding the earlier row that prompted Yusuf's resignation, Farage addressed the controversy around Sarah Pochin MP’s question about banning the burka. He reiterated that while he personally finds the burka “probably anti-British,” the issue will not be a focal point of the party’s campaign. The government, meanwhile, reaffirmed its position that individuals should be free to choose what they wear.
Farage also touched on the death penalty, stating that while he believes it could return to national debate within the next decade, it will not form part of Reform UK’s policy platform. “This is a matter of conscience, not party doctrine,” he said.
Recent polling by YouGov places Reform UK at 29% in national voting intention, ahead of Labour at 23% and the Conservatives at 17%, signaling growing public support for the party's platform and leadership changes. Photo by David Bull, Wikimedia commons.