Parry loyalty comments trigger Reform UK backlash.

Published: 19 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A Reform UK mayoral candidate, Chris Parry, has sparked widespread condemnation after questioning the loyalty of several politicians from minority ethnic backgrounds. Parry, a retired naval rear admiral chosen to contest the now-postponed Hampshire and Solent mayoral election for the party, previously told Labour’s David Lammy to “go home to the Caribbean where his loyalty lies.” His remarks, made on social media, have reignited debates about political conduct and racial sensitivity in the UK.

The controversy intensified as further comments by Parry emerged, all dating from May this year onward, suggesting that at least eight other politicians from minority backgrounds do not primarily owe loyalty to the United Kingdom. These statements, mostly made via X, formerly known as Twitter, included quote-retweeting posts by other users, some associated with far-right or openly anti-Islam accounts.

In May, Parry commented on footage showing Anas Sarwar, the Labour leader in Scotland, participating in a 2022 event marking Pakistan’s independence anniversary, writing: “So many people in @UKLabour don’t owe their primary loyalty to Britain.” The following month, he criticised Labour MP Naz Shah for taking her parliamentary oath using the Qur’an, adding: “That’s OK, if she commits blasphemy by betraying the British people and demonstrating primary loyalty to another country.”

Parry’s comments about Humza Yousaf, former First Minister of Scotland, similarly questioned his allegiance: “His first loyalty is not to any country in the UK,” he wrote in June. In October, when former Labour MP Zarah Sultana, now representing Your Party, responded to a journalist’s suggestion that she should be deported, Parry stated: “It’s because your first loyalty is not to the British people. Nothing to do with your religion or background. We don’t trust you to defend our interests.”

Further posts questioned London Mayor Sadiq Khan and MP Dawn Butler’s participation in a Jamaica-themed party during the Labour conference. Parry commented: “You really have to wonder where people’s primary loyalty lies.” He also raised questions about Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s Muslim faith in relation to loyalty, asking: “Doesn’t her religion require her to show loyalty to her fellow Muslims before any country? Genuine question.” Similarly, he suggested that Kaukab Stewart, Scotland’s equalities minister, did not primarily owe loyalty to Britain or Scotland.

The remarks about Lammy’s loyalty resurfaced when Parry, reflecting on a naval policy story, wrote: “This is what happens when you have someone whose primary loyalty is not to the UK as foreign secretary.” Despite the repeated criticisms, Reform UK has so far refused to condemn Parry’s statements. At a press conference on Tuesday, the party’s deputy leader appeared to downplay the remarks, suggesting they fall within the realm of political debate. He said: “At the end of the day, David Lammy is a cabinet minister. Whether we think he’s doing a good or bad job is just part of politics. That’s day-to-day life. He will, I’m sure, continue to claim he’s doing a great job. We challenge him.”

Labour chair Anna Turley criticised both Parry and Nigel Farage, calling for immediate action. She stated: “Farage needed to throw Chris Parry out of Reform UK and drop him as a candidate nearly two weeks ago. The fact he didn’t shows he’s willing to turn a blind eye to racism in his party’s senior ranks. It falls far below the standards the public expect of political leaders.” Turley added: “The failure to act against Parry despite his first racist comments being exposed 12 days ago demonstrates what a weak leader Farage is, dragging his party further into the gutter and rendering him unfit for high office.”

The Labour Party has called for urgent action, emphasising that the repeated nature of Parry’s remarks represents a broader challenge of intolerance within Reform UK. The party highlighted the risk of these statements undermining public confidence in political leadership and governance standards.

Political analysts note that Parry’s repeated social media commentary reflects a growing tension in UK politics, where the conduct and loyalty of elected officials from minority backgrounds increasingly become a focal point for debate. Critics argue that such remarks exacerbate divisions and reinforce stereotypes, while defenders within the party frame it as scrutiny within normal political discourse.

Observers also note that the ongoing controversy could influence Reform UK’s credibility and candidate vetting processes, especially as the Hampshire and Solent mayoral election remains postponed. The party’s apparent reluctance to address Parry’s comments has drawn attention from national media, prompting questions about leadership accountability and the boundaries of acceptable political commentary.

Parry’s repeated emphasis on loyalty, often intertwined with race and religion, has heightened concerns among civil society groups. Advocacy organisations argue that political discourse must remain inclusive and respectful, warning that continued tolerance of such remarks could normalize racially charged scrutiny of politicians’ backgrounds.

The controversy has prompted discussions on social media and in parliament about balancing freedom of speech with responsible political engagement. Lawmakers and commentators continue to debate whether Reform UK’s inaction could have long-term consequences for party reputation and voter trust, particularly among minority communities.

While Parry remains a candidate, Reform UK has yet to clarify if they will implement any internal disciplinary measures. Critics insist that failing to address these comments risks signalling tacit approval, which could deepen fractures within the UK’s political landscape. As the debate unfolds, the political establishment faces renewed scrutiny over ethical standards, leadership responsibility, and the treatment of minority politicians in public life.