Berry praised Farage's consistency and principles, expressing trust in him and stating his belief that Britain is 'broken' and Reform UK is necessary to rebuild the country.

Berry emphasized that the Conservative Party has lost its way, abandoning principles and letting down supporters, particularly those who believed in Johnson's levelling up agenda.

Since losing his parliamentary seat in 2024 to Labour's Andy MacNae, Berry has been working as a broadcaster on Talk TV, expressing disillusionment with the political landscape and blaming traditional parties for Britain's decline.

Berry, who served in Boris Johnson's and Theresa May's cabinets and was a Tory chairman during Liz Truss's brief government, cited the need for change to restore national pride and support Reform UK's vision of transforming the country.

His move follows the recent defection of other ex-Cabinet ministers, including David Jones, and a wave of former Tory MPs like Marco Longhi and Dame Andrea Jenkyns joining Reform UK, signaling a shift in the political landscape.

Berry's departure, along with other mainstream politicians, suggests a changing mood that could threaten the traditional Tory base, with some viewing Reform as a potential winner in future elections, even surpassing the Conservatives.

He also highlighted his opposition to Brexit before 2016 but now supports Farage's leadership and the party's platform, aiming to campaign for Reform UK to form the next government.

Berry's defection is a blow to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, especially after her efforts to improve her party's fortunes, and reflects internal tensions within the Conservative Party.

Sir Jake Berry, a former Conservative MP and government minister, has defected to Nigel Farage's Reform UK, criticizing the Conservative Party for losing its way and abandoning its principles.

The wave of defections to Reform UK indicates a potential exodus of center-right politicians, which could further diminish the Conservative Party's standing.

Berry criticized the Conservative Party for high taxes, uncontrolled immigration, and a lack of trust in government, highlighting the need for a new political direction.

Berry, a Remainer and Boris loyalist, served for 14 years and was a founder of the Northern Research Group, bringing significant organizational experience to Reform UK.