Mega Tory donor Sir John Hall handed new Reform role in blow to Kemi Badenoch – as millionaire tycoon deals parting shot

In a setback to Kemi Badenoch, Sir John Hall, a multimillionaire real estate magnate and former Tory donor, formally joined Reform yesterday.

After being named North East Life President of Nigel Farage’s party, the former Newcastle United chairman issued a warning about becoming a stranger in his own country.

Prior to supporting Reform in the general election and subsequently supporting Robert Jenrick to succeed Rishi Sunak as opposition leader, Sir John gave 500,000 to the Conservatives.

The property tycoon said that 14 years of Conservative leadership had failed to curb immigration or assist businesses and growth, in a final jab at his former party.

It was announced today that Sir John had given a substantial donation to Reform.

I joined the Conservative Party because they supported the private sector,” he stated. Things gradually altered, and I was amazed at the pace of change in my nation during the past five years.

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“After 14 years of Conservative government, I’m an elderly Englishman who now feels alienated in my own country.

“I have never witnessed such passion for a political party; Reform speaks the language.” I’m happy to be with Reform because, like many other English people today, I want to see Englishness preserved for future generations.

“A giant of the North East of England, Sir John Hall is a beacon for social mobility and British values,” stated Zia Yusuf, chairman of Reform UK.

“As a longtime Tory donor and supporter, he can see that their reputation has been damaged following one of the biggest betrayals of the British people.