It's Concerning How Possible Reform Supporters Don't All Fit the Stereotype of Aggressive Hooligans

Yusuf, 47, Birmingham

Occupation: Economics Tutor & Online Educator

Political History: Labour Party. Yusuf considers himself “formerly known as traditional centre-left. To the left of Starmer – and many feel the same”

Amuse Bouche: At an event featuring inspirational speaker Tony Robbins, who demonstrated human potential, Yusuf once walked over hot coals.

Mark, 66, Walsall

Occupation: Ex- Nursing Professional, later Teacher, now Retired

Past Votes: Has voted for different parties – in the last election Conservative Party and next time he plans to vote Reform

Personal Anecdote: He once scored twice representing England versus Germany … at the wedding of his sister, who wed a German (England lost the match).

First Course

Mark: Since I had surgery for Parkinson’s, it can be difficult finding the words. Yusuf is very articulate, and very passionate in what he believes. I usually drink but this time I had a blackcurrant with soda. I ordered sirloin steak, followed by a pancake and ice cream.

Yusuf: People often imagine of the typical a Reform supporter appears – a white T-shirt with a union jack or an aggressive-looking individual – and that perception was disproven. He was very genial. I’ve been 16 years sober, so I chose Diet Coke. My main was ribeye steak, which was delicious.

Main Discussion

Mark: Today's immigration rates are unsustainable. Numerous migrants coming on small boats are hardworking and honest, though some are not. There is a risk of criminals or terrorists.

Yusuf: Consider their situation. No one leaves a happy home their homeland and living a good life. They are people who have lost everything or who are fleeing devastation. Small boat arrivals represent a minor portion; the majority of migrants into this country is completely legal.

Mark: There’s an ethical dimension to luring professionals to a wealthy nation, as we are creating shortages in other nations. A concern I’ve had for years is UK overpopulation, given energy needs, water supply, NHS, education, housing, etc. Additionally, some groups that remain isolated and don’t come into contact with the wider society. I believe this is a problem – particularly when migrants are coming from countries where freedoms or women's rights are appalling.

Yusuf: I shared my dad's story We don't instantly become British; they continue their traditions in their home country. Several countries under British rule, like India, were well developed economically, but Britain exploited them and set them back. It’s not like we came to get our stuff back, but we moved to where opportunities are.

Common Ground

Mark: We concurred when people become super affluent, they always want more. I'd advocate for taxing the rich.

Yusuf: Mark said wealth inequality was all Thatcher’s fault and mentioned her policies. He didn't seem like a typical Conservative!

For Afters

Mark: Nigel Farage is very persuasive, doesn’t he? I believe in his economic plans, although austerity measures will upset a lot of people so maybe he’ll have to temper his intentions. I will vote with a heavy heart since he appears he’s not interested in the NHS; moving to private care is disappointing. My career was in the NHS. However, I won't support Conservatives or Labour; they’ve had their chance.

Yusuf: I told Mark: think about who your bedfellows in Reform are. There are some really nasty people, you’re not one of them, your opinions differ. Nigel Farage and Richard Tice, Richard Tice, are affluent businessmen with little genuine interest in the nation, but are trying to appeal to public anxieties and prejudices to win power.

Takeaway

Mark: Now I’m retired, I'm less connected to younger generations compared to my teaching days. The dinner was enjoyable.

Yusuf: I find it alarming that those considering Reform don't all fit the image of aggressive nationalists. But I came away feeling positive that through calm discussion certain topics, it's possible to shift attitudes and opinions.