This was probably the last thing Richard Tice expected when he entered his ‘safe space’ on GB News this week – but the Reform Deputy Leader ended up on the receiving end of some staunch criticism from the broadcaster’s political editor.
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Defence row sees cabinet members quit
Christopher Hope, who also presents shows and appears as a panellist for the network, was left infuriated by Mr Tice and his response to the issue of national security. On Thursday, Defence Secretary John Healey resigned from his position, citing concerns over future military funding.
He was followed out the door just hours later by Armed Forces Minister Al Cairns, who said that ‘a failure of seriousness’ was at the heart of the latest defence budget, forcing him to distance himself from the current government who ‘would not listen’ to his viewpoint.
“We owe those who serve the UK the kit to do the job and the loyalty to stand by them when it’s done. We are failing on both. I’ve spent my whole time in government making that case. Number 10 will not listen, so I am resigning as Minister for the Armed Forces.” | Al Cairns
Reform, Richard Tice accused of ‘insulting’ GB News viewers
Expecting to turn up and shoot fish in a barrel, Richard Tice ended up a target himself. Hope was quick to point out that Reform have so far failed to name a defence spokesperson – and was left horrified when the MP for Boston suggested that ‘Nigel Farage could do it’.
He questioned the seriousness of the party, and accused them of displaying hypocrisy in their criticism of Labour.
“You haven’t got a defence spokesperson. How can you possibly accuse Labour of anything. How is Nigel Farage [your nominee for defence spokesperson] – he’s meant to be your Prime Minister! That says everything about the seriousness of your party.”
“I’ll ask again, can you name your defence spokesperson? It’s not an MP, is it? ‘Your party isn’t serious without a defence spokesperson, you can’t come onto GB News and insult our viewers! This is important…” | Christopher Hope