Key facts
- Helen Jenner is the new leader of Reform UK in Wales.
- Dan Thomas stepped down as Reform UK leader in Wales after his arrest.
- Thomas was arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behavior.
- Thomas has been bailed and denies wrongdoing.
- Nigel Farage stated the party would continue its work.
- Jenner was previously Reform UK's deputy leader in Wales.
Helen Jenner has been appointed the new leader of Reform UK in Wales, replacing Dan Thomas who resigned following his arrest. Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, downplayed the significance of the leadership change, stating the party would "carry on as if nothing has happened."
Thomas stepped down last Tuesday after being arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behavior. He has since been bailed and maintains his innocence. Thomas, a former Tory councillor and member of the Welsh parliament, was appointed Reform's Welsh leader in February.
Jenner, who hails from Neath and represents Bangor Conwy Môn in the Senedd, was previously the deputy leader in Wales. Farage expressed sympathy for Thomas's personal difficulties but acknowledged that continuing as leader amid domestic disputes was "untenable."
Elections for a new deputy leader in Wales will be held. Farage acknowledged the situation as a "bump in the road" but expressed confidence in the party's ability to move forward. Thomas had stated that he did not want the "coming headlines" to distract from the Senedd team's work.
Gwent police confirmed the arrest of a 45-year-old man on September 13 on suspicion of assault and controlling/coercive behavior, with bail pending further inquiries. Unlike Thomas, who some perceived as an outsider, Jenner is a Welsh speaker with a history in Farage's parties and was elected by her colleagues. Another candidate reportedly stood for the leadership role, but their identity was not disclosed.
Jenner takes leadership at a time when Reform UK aims to build on its Senedd election gains, where it became the second-largest party. However, the party has also been affected by the defection of another Senedd member, Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, to Plaid Cymru, which sparked criticism from Reform's deputy leader, Richard Tice.