Farage hints that James McMurdock MP could rejoin Reform

Nigel Farage has hinted that one of his former MPs in Essex, who quit Reform UK after allegations of financial misconduct, could rejoin his party. James McMurdock gave up his party whip last year over questions about his eligibility for Covid-19 support loans that he received through two companies. He denied any wrongdoing. Asked during a local election campaign visit to Corringham in Essex, Farage said "I'm hoping we can get this thing ironed out". McMurdock sits as an independent for South Basildon and East Thurrock, which includes Corringham, and he confirmed he would like to rejoin the party. "I really think Reform is an important movement at the minute," said McMurdock. Asked if he was eligible for two payments that the Sunday Times first reported in July and totalled £70,000, McMurdock said: "All of my business conduct has always been above board with proper sign off with appropriate qualified professionals." Reform had said it would carry out its own internal investigation and that McMurdock had agreed to "cooperate in full". Farage was asked if McMurdock had been cleared of any wrongdoing by the party. The Clacton MP said he spoke with him a "couple of weeks ago" and said: