Lord Malcolm Offord was announced by Nigel Farage as the latest defector to join the party during a rally in Falkirk.

The Scottish financier previously served as a Scotland Office minister during the last Conservative government, and was the Scottish Tories’ treasurer at the time of his defection.

Mr Farage said he was “delighted” to welcome Lord Offord to Reform, describing his defection as “a brave and historic act”.

He added: “He will take Reform UK Scotland to a new level.”

During a speech, Lord Offord confirmed he would stand at the Scottish Parliament election in May.

He said he would give up his place in the House of Lords as he prepares to campaign for a seat at Holyrood.

He said he wanted to restore Scotland to a “prosperous, happy, healthy country”.

He told the rally: “Sco

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