Ex-Tory MP appointed as advisor to Reform mayor

Lia Nici, previously a Conservative MP, has been named a special advisor to Luke Campbell, the Reform UK Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire. Ms Nici represented Great Grimsby from 2019 until she was defeated by Labour in the 2024 election.

According to a source within Reform UK, Ms Nici, along with former Conservative MPs Jonathan Gullis and Chris Green, has officially joined the party.

Mayor Campbell expressed his enthusiasm, saying he was "thrilled to have Lia join the team" and believes she "will play a key role in advancing initiatives for communities across Hull and East Yorkshire."

Campbell, a former Olympic boxing champion, became the region's first directly elected mayor in May. His responsibilities include overseeing housing, transport, infrastructure, economic growth, business, skills, and regional regeneration.

Ms Nici commented on her appointment: "I am excited to support Mayor Campbell's vision for Hull and East Yorkshire. I look forward to collaborating closely to address the priorities that are most important to local residents."

Analysis: Lia Nici Joins Reform UK Team in Hull

From my perspective, Lia Nici's move from the Conservative Party to Reform UK marks a notable shift in the local political landscape. Her experience as the MP for Great Grimsby from 2019 to 2024 provides her with insight into parliamentary procedures and constituent concerns, which she can now apply at the regional level.

Joining former MPs Jonathan Gullis and Chris Green, Ms Nici strengthens Reform UK's profile, signaling the party’s intent to consolidate influence in Hull and East Yorkshire. Her advisory role under Mayor Luke Campbell, a newly elected official with wide-ranging responsibilities including housing and economic development, positions her to impact key regional initiatives directly.

This appointment also reflects a broader trend of politicians moving to emerging parties after electoral defeat, leveraging their expertise in new capacities. For local residents, the immediate implications will be seen in collaborative projects and policy decisions aimed at addressing community priorities, aligning with Mayor Campbell’s stated objectives.

Sources:

• Former Tory MP becomes advisor to Reform mayor