Reform UK Distributes 15 Million Copies of New Weekly Publication

Reform UK has begun delivering 15 million copies of its new free newspaper to households across Britain. The publication, titled The Reformer, is the first in a series planned for monthly release. The party stated that the print run is intended to drive up membership rates and supplement its existing digital presence.

The launch follows a period of internal restructuring where the party sought to expand its media footprint beyond social media. Reform leaders described the project as a move to build a national publishing operation that rivals established news organizations. The paper is also available at the party’s Westminster headquarters on Millbank Tower, though it is kept behind the reception desk rather than on open news stands.

Mick Hume, the former editor of Spiked, is leading the publication. The project is part of a wider initiative to create a seven-day digital newsroom and expand video content. The party has advertised 12 open positions, including roles for an executive editor, a website editor, and multimedia reporters. Job listings specify that candidates must be NCTJ-qualified and capable of producing original scoops rather than republishing existing material.

The first edition features a front-page photograph of party leader Nigel Farage with a Labrador. The accompanying headline reads, “Nigel Farage: we will fix broken Britain.” In his inaugural column, Farage wrote, “We have had enough of what we say and do being distorted by the media. So instead, we want to talk to you directly, and make sure that you get our message straight from the Reformer.”

Other content in the inaugural issue includes a retrospective on the Clacton byelection. The article references the result where Farage received 22,239 votes against an opponent named Count Binface, after major parties declined to field candidates. The byelection was called following Farage’s resignation from his Essex seat over an undeclared £5m gift from Christopher Harborne. The issue also contains a tribute to Ann Widdecombe, a Reform politician who died in July.

A policy proposal in the newspaper details “Operation Fortress,” which outlines a plan to use the Royal Navy to intercept small boats crossing the Channel. The text states that a Prime Minister Farage would order the navy to return migrants to France. Military experts have criticized the strategy, arguing that the navy should not function as a ferry service. The paper also includes local updates on party members fixing potholes and collecting litter.

Reform insiders described the first edition as rushed and indicated that future issues will contain more news and features. The party is sending the paper to 15 million people and includes a cut-out form for new members to join. Those who sign up via the form receive a free mug and badge. Readers are also encouraged to register as candidates for the local elections scheduled for May 2027.

Printweek reported that the Walstead Group printed the newspaper. The company holds contracts with other major UK titles, including the Sunday Times and the Sun on Sunday. The publication marks a shift from local election pamphlets to a consistent national print strategy. The party aims to use the paper to bypass traditional media channels and communicate directly with supporters.