A Bucks MP has branded claims she could defect to Reform UK as ‘nonsense’ after reportedly being named on a Tory defection watchlist.
Joy Morrissey, the Conservative MP for Beaconsfield, Marlow and the South Bucks villages, was identified as a potential defector to Reform UK in a list seen by The Independent.
The report comes amid turmoil following Robert Jenrick’s defection to Reform, fuelling speculation about further cracks within the Conservative Party.
But Ms Morrissey has dismissed the suggestion she could abandon the Tories as “nonsense”, insisting she has “no intention” of leaving and never has.
The American-born MP said she was “proud” to have been elected as a Conservative and would not turn her back on voters.
“I have no intention of doing so, and never have,” she said.
“I was proud that the people of Beaconsfield, Marlow and the South Bucks villages elected me to represent them as a Conservative.
“I will not betray my constituents by joining another Party.”
Ms Morrissey also voiced strong backing for Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, praising her senior team.
She said: “The team Kemi has brought together is formidable, and the British public are beginning to see that.
“As Kemi said last week, people are tired of political psychodrama and want serious, credible leadership focused on the country.”
She added: “I am proud to continue serving as the Conservative MP and local champion for Beaconsfield, Marlow and the South Bucks villages.“
Ms Morrissey was one of 11 Conservative MPs named on a defection watchlist drawn up amid fears more could follow Robert Jenrick to Reform UK.
The list, seen by The Independent, was reportedly compiled before Mr Jenrick’s defection and includes a mix of veteran MPs, former ministers and members of the 2024 intake.
One senior Conservative figure warned the party was facing a “fight for its survival”, while another insider claimed the number of potential defectors could stretch to more than 20 MPs.
The concerns come as Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has set a 7 May deadline for any further Conservative defections, warning that MPs who wait beyond that date may not be accepted by the party.
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