‘This is so pathetic’: Reform and Restore Britain lock horns in Makerfield byelection buildup
The Makerfield byelection has seen escalating tensions between the rightwing parties Reform UK and Restore Britain. Both parties have exchanged insults and criticisms, particularly following endorsements from Elon Musk that have complicated their rivalry. Key moments include disputes over polling data and controversial social media posts by candidates.
- ▪Reform UK and Restore Britain have been publicly feuding in the lead-up to the Makerfield byelection.
- ▪Elon Musk's endorsements of Restore Britain have intensified the rivalry between the two parties.
- ▪Controversial social media posts by Reform's candidate have drawn criticism and led to calls for apologies.
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Nigel Farage and Richard Tice of Reform UK, with Rupert Lowe of Restore lurking in the background. Photograph: Maja Smiejkowska/PAView image in fullscreenNigel Farage and Richard Tice of Reform UK, with Rupert Lowe of Restore lurking in the background. Photograph: Maja Smiejkowska/PAReform UKAnalysis‘This is so pathetic’: Reform and Restore Britain lock horns in Makerfield byelection buildupMatthew WeaverSpurred on by Elon Musk, the two rightwing parties spent the week taking potshots at each other. We look back at who hurled which insult at whom UK politics live – latest updates Fri 29 May 2026 07.24 EDTLast modified on Fri 29 May 2026 07.30 EDTShareIt’s been a week of rudeness, rows and revelations in the Makerfield byelection.
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