Rupert Lowe, former Reform UK MP for Great Yarmouth, has formally launched Restore Britain as a national political party, aiming to expand beyond local politics.
The party, unveiled on Friday night, evolves from a political movement Lowe began after his suspension from Reform UK last year. He intends Restore Britain to work alongside local parties across the country, creating a network of partner groups.
Lowe’s suspension from Reform UK followed allegations that he threatened then-chairman Zia Yusuf with physical violence. The Crown Prosecution Service later determined there was insufficient evidence for a “realistic prospect of conviction.”
Restore Britain is expected to serve as an umbrella party, incorporating locally based groups such as Great Yarmouth First, the party Lowe founded and plans to represent again in his constituency.
Lowe, also a businessman, farmer, and former Southampton FC chairman, has stressed the need for politicians who connect with their communities, highlighting Great Yarmouth as an example.
Senior Conservative figures, including London Assembly leader Susan Hall and former minister Sir Gavin Williamson, had previously been part of Restore Britain’s advisory board. However, with the movement now formally a political party, both are reportedly stepping down.
The BBC’s East of England political editor, Andrew Sinclair, described Lowe as a “maverick MP” who is “not very collegiate, which was one reason why he left Reform UK.”
“He also believes, more than many, that there is a real disconnect between mainstream politicians and the public - and he points to his Great Yarmouth constituency as proof that he is right. There haven't been any elections in the town since he left Reform but anecdotally he seems to have a lot of support. I have been shown private polling by both Labour and his own people which suggest that he would do well if an election was held now," he added.
Sinclair said Lowe believes there is space for another party on the right that values independence of thought.
“He had hoped his local creation Great Yarmouth First would make its mark in this year's local elections, but they have been cancelled. This new party will aim to pick up national support,” he added.
