A former Conservative Party councillor in Walsall, Jade Chapman, has officially joined the right-wing political party Advance UK, which is known for its association with anti-Islam campaigner Tommy Robinson. Chapman announced her resignation from the Conservative Party on September 18, shortly after attending a march led by Robinson in London on September 13.
Chapman, who represents the Rushall-Shelfield ward, expressed her frustration with perceived inequalities faced by British citizens. In her statements to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, she voiced concerns that British people are “being pushed to the back of the queue” regarding access to housing, benefits, healthcare, and jobs. She criticized current equality and diversity initiatives, claiming they often prioritize ethnicity over ethics.
Advance UK, which is led by Ben Habib, a former deputy leader of Reform UK, has been labeled as far-right by some observers due to its policies and affiliations with right-wing activists like Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. The party’s launch event in Newcastle-upon-Tyne faced cancellation by the Labour-led Newcastle City Council, which cited “health and safety grounds” for the decision.
Chapman articulated her belief that mainstream political parties have failed to adequately defend free speech. She stated, “For too long, no mainstream party has been willing to truly defend free speech.” She praised Advance UK for fostering an environment where ordinary people can voice their concerns without fear of judgment or backlash. “This is not how a healthy democracy functions,” she added.
As public sentiment regarding political representation shifts, Chapman’s move to Advance UK reflects a broader trend among some voters who feel disillusioned by traditional parties. With her bold statements and recent actions, Chapman aims to connect with constituents who share her concerns about the current political climate in the UK.
