Reform UK’s flagship council is facing criticism for potentially going back on its election promises by suggesting a nearly 4% increase in council tax. Kent County Council, which was won by Nigel Farage’s party in the May 2025 local elections, had aimed to showcase what a Reform government could achieve in Downing Street. However, recent draft budget plans from KCC indicate a proposal for a 3.99% rise in council tax, despite previous commitments to reducing taxes.
Although the proposed increase falls just below the 5% ceiling set for council tax hikes without a local referendum or approval from the central government, campaign materials from Reform candidates leading up to the election emphasized intentions to “Reduce waste and cut your taxes.”
The Liberal Democrat opposition at KCC has accused Reform of financial mismanagement and labeled the move as a “complete betrayal” of the promises made during the election campaign. Antony Hook, the opposition leader, expressed disappointment, stating that Reform had pledged to make savings and ease the tax burden on taxpayers but had now failed to deliver on those commitments.
In a similar development, the Reform-led Staffordshire council recently put forward a proposal to raise bills for residents by 3.99% for the upcoming 2026-2027 financial year.
Responding to the criticism, Linden Kemkaran, the leader of Kent County Council, defended the proposed tax increase by highlighting the challenging financial situation inherited by the administration, including significant debt and growing pressures on essential services. Kemkaran emphasized that the draft budget proposals aimed to keep the council tax increase below previous expectations through effective financial management and efficiencies.
Notably, last year, four Reform UK councillors were suspended from the council after a leaked video revealed a tumultuous council meeting. In the video, Council leader Ms. Kemkaran addressed the members, asserting her leadership style and decision-making authority, which led to some controversy within the council.
The final decision on KCC’s budget and council tax charge is scheduled to be made on February 12.