After 20 years with the Conservatives, Surrey councillor Andy Lynch jumps to Reform UK, claiming the Tories have stopped listening to everyday people.
A Political Earthquake in Surrey: Longtime Tory Councillor Defects to Reform UK
In a move that’s rattled the Surrey political scene, veteran councillor Andy Lynch has officially left the Conservative Party—after more than 20 years of service—and joined Reform UK.
His switch marks a historic moment: Surrey County Council now has its first-ever Reform UK member.
“The Party I Knew Is Gone”
Cllr Lynch, who represents Horley West, Salfords and Sidlow, said the decision didn’t come easily. “It took a lot of soul-searching and a fair few sleepless nights,” he admitted. But in the end, he said, he could no longer stand by a party that he believes has “lost its way.”
“I’ve spent decades serving under the Conservative banner,” Lynch explained. “But the party just doesn’t reflect the values it once did. People feel ignored. Reform UK, on the other hand, is actually listening.”
He described Reform as “common-sense politics” that puts “country before career.”
One Defection, One Growing Trend
Lynch’s departure doesn’t shake the Tory majority at Surrey County Council—yet. The Conservatives still hold 41 seats, making them the largest group. But with two by-elections looming, that grip could soon slip.
Just eight years ago, the Tories held a commanding 41-seat majority. Now, they risk being reduced to a razor-thin lead. And if Lynch’s move is a sign of things to come, more defections could follow.
From Council Chair to Controversy—And Back
Cllr Lynch isn’t new to local government or headlines. Alongside running his own flooring business, he served for years on Reigate Borough Council, chaired its licensing committee, and once led the Horley Conservatives.
However, in 2022, he was suspended by the party over controversial tweets and was found to have breached Surrey County Council’s code of conduct. He publicly apologized and cooperated fully with the investigation, ultimately being reinstated.
“We all make mistakes,” he said candidly. “But I owned up, apologized, and moved forward. That’s what matters.”
Reform UK Gaining Ground?
So, why now? For Lynch, it’s all about timing and trust. “People are tired,” he said. “The Conservatives had 14 years and didn’t deliver meaningful change. You talk to folks on the doorstep, and they say, ‘Nigel Farage is actually listening to us.’ That’s what drew me in.”
Though still just one voice in a large council, Lynch’s move could be the spark that lights a wider shift in Surrey’s political winds.
Final Thoughts
Councillor Lynch made it clear: his commitment lies with his constituents, not his party badge. “At the end of the day,” he said, “I’m here to serve the people—whatever banner I stand under.”
One defection might not collapse the Conservative stronghold overnight, but it certainly sends a message: the political ground in Surrey is shifting—and voters are paying attention.
