Reform UK enlists Boris Johnson ally to write party nature policies

"Ben Goldsmith, the veteran Conservative environmentalist and ally of Boris Johnson, has been approached to write Reform UK's policies on nature, as Nigel Farage's party attempts to make inroads with voters put off by his stance on the climate crisis. Goldsmith will work with the Reform leader and his policy adviser James Orr on policies such as fishing and preservation of the green belt, as party figures admit they are struggling to win over Conservative voters who care about the environment."

"It is understood the financier and wildlife campaigner will not be joining the party, but is happy to advise them on nature policy. Goldsmith has been a leading figure in the rewilding movement, has supported efforts to return animals including the beaver to the UK, and has worked to preserve rare wildlife around the world. Reform has made huge inroads among Tory voters in the past 18 months, propelling the party to the top of the polls and on course for a majority at the next election."

Ben Goldsmith has been approached to advise on Reform UK's nature policies and will work with the Reform leader and policy adviser James Orr on fishing and green-belt preservation. He will not join the party but will provide advice. Goldsmith is a leading figure in the rewilding movement, supported returning beavers to the UK, and has worked to preserve rare wildlife globally. Reform has gained significant support among Conservative voters, but opposition to net zero alienates some green Conservatives. Polling indicates majorities across Reform and Conservative voters prioritise nature, with 57% of Reform voters and 66% of Conservative voters favouring government prioritisation of nature.

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