Reform UK’s flagship council is under fire for allegedly breaking election promises by suggesting an almost 4% increase in council tax. Kent County Council, which was won by Nigel Farage’s party in the May 2025 local elections, aimed to showcase what a Reform government could achieve at Downing Street. Despite vowing to reduce taxes before the previous election, draft budget plans from KCC this week indicate a proposed 3.99% council tax hike.
While this increase falls just below the maximum 5% limit that councils can raise without a local referendum or central government approval, Reform candidates’ pre-election materials included commitments to “Reduce waste and cut your taxes.”
The Liberal Democrat opposition at KCC has accused Reform of financial mismanagement and a “complete betrayal” of their election pledges. Leader Antony Hook expressed disappointment, stating that Reform had campaigned on promises of savings and lower tax burdens, which have now been broken. The proposed 3.99% increase, slightly lower than 5%, translates to just 33p per week for the average Kent family, a far cry from the expectations set during the election campaign.
Recent reports also highlight that the Reform-led Staffordshire council has proposed a 3.99% increase in residents’ bills for the 2026-2027 financial year.
In response to criticism, Kent County Council’s leader Linden Kemkaran defended the proposed council tax hike, citing the challenging financial situation inherited by the current administration. Kemkaran emphasized that the draft budget prioritizes sound financial management and efficiencies to keep the proposed increase below previous expectations.
Notably, last year, four Reform UK councillors were suspended after a leaked Zoom video revealed a tumultuous council meeting. Council leader Ms. Kemkaran, known for her strong leadership style, addressed concerns within the council, stressing the importance of making difficult decisions despite differing opinions. The final budget and council tax charge for KCC will be determined on February 12.