Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform Party, is seeking to repair his fractured relationship with Elon Musk, as he prepares to travel to the United States for Donald Trump's inauguration. Their rift deepened this week over Farage's perceived support for jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, sparking a public feud that culminated in Musk calling for Farage's replacement.
Despite the controversy, Farage maintains he'll attend the inauguration and intends to mend ties with Musk. He views Musk's support as crucial for the Reform Party, particularly with younger voters. "Not having his support would damage us," Farage stated in a radio interview, conceding the billionaire's public endorsements bolster the party's image.
Separately, Farage announced the Reform Party's intention to launch an unofficial inquiry into grooming gangs if the government fails to act within weeks. He asserts a concerted effort has been made to downplay the issue for fear of accusations of racism, claiming the attacks themselves were driven by anti-white female racism. This independent inquiry, to be spearheaded by ex-judges and experts, would not hold legal force, but Farage believes public pressure would compel cooperation.
The controversy surrounding Robinson extends beyond the Musk-Farage feud. Musk also targeted Home Office minister Jess Phillips, accusing her of being an "apologist for rape genocide," following her rejection of a Whitehall-led inquiry into child sexual abuse in Oldham. Phillips contended that a local-led inquiry was the appropriate approach, mirroring the previous government's response to a similar request from Telford Council. In response to these accusations, Farage stated he does not "concur" but does not see Musk's comments as crossing a line regarding acceptable free speech.
Farage has also defended his time spent in his constituency, citing a planned business event in Clacton and frequent meetings with constituents. Adding that he has purchased a house in Clacton, he defended spending more time in his constituency compared to other MPs.
