Reform tells councillors to do as little as possible in first 100 days – as Farage’s pledges the opposite
Leaked guidance tells Reform UK councillors to avoid major changes during their first 100 days in office and focus on listening, learning and understanding local services. This contrasts with Nigel Farage’s national campaign, which promises rapid action if Reform wins power, raising questions about the difference between the party’s local and national approach.
The guide, written by Cllr Diane Morton, advises councillors to build relationships with council officers and understand services before making decisions. Dated August 2026, it appeared weeks before Farage’s 4 September conference speech, in which he pledged a national emergency, cancelled parliamentary recesses and ministerial targets for the first 100 days. Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick’s pledge included cutting £100bn in spending.
In short
- Reform councillors are urged to avoid major changes in their first 100 days.
- Farage has promised rapid national action if Reform wins power.
- The guidance appeared weeks before his conference pledges.
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The case for
A cautious first 100 days for new councillors can be a responsible way to learn how services work, build trust with officers and avoid costly decisions based on incomplete information. Local councils face distinct circumstances, so listening before acting may help councillors make changes that are workable and responsive to residents.
The case against
The contrast with Reform’s national promises may raise questions about consistency and whether the party is setting different expectations for local and national office. Voters could reasonably expect councillors to pursue prompt change too, particularly if the party argues that urgent action is needed and promises rapid results at national level.