A LIBERAL Democrat city councillor has talked of how she was publicly urged to join Reform UK.
At this year’s Local Government Association (LGA) Conference in Liverpool, Reform UK director of local government Jaymey McIvor encouraged Worcester City Councillor Jessie Jagger to “join Reform and become a Member of Parliament” prompting a measured response from the Liberal Democrat group co-leader.
The comment was made during a Q&A session following Mr McIvor’s speech in the main auditorium. Coun Jagger addressed him directly, saying “I’m an immigrant and a British citizen – what are you going to do with me then?”
McIvor replied: “Join Reform and become a Member of Parliament.”
Coun Jagger, who co-leads the Liberal Democrat group on Worcester City Council, said: “I was surprised by the suggestion. My values have always been clear – I believe in fairness, decency, and politics that bring people together, not divide them. While the exchange was civil, it underlines how far removed Reform’s direction is from the kind of politics I stand for.”
She continued: “People are looking for serious leadership – rooted in integrity, not off-the-cuff remarks and grand gestures.”
Coun Jagger has previously spoken about her experience with the UK immigration system during Theresa May’s policy. Her application for permanent settlement was initially rejected by the Home Office on the grounds that she had “failed to demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language and British culture” – despite submitting evidence that she was employed as an English teacher, held two undergraduate degrees (including a Law degree from a Russell Group university), and had a postgraduate degree from Oxford University.
The rejection was due to an error and cost her over £1,000 to resolve.
Coun Jagger continued: “It was a frustrating and dehumanising experience. It taught me how bureaucratic systems – especially
when shaped by political hostility – can affect people who do their best to make a valuable contribution to society. I felt very vulnerable, so I have immense sympathy for asylum seekers who face a much more precarious reality.”
Coun Jagger previously stood for Parliament under her former name, Jessie Venegas, in Hammersmith during the 2019 General Election. In that election, she significantly outperformed the Brexit Party candidate, who lost their deposit. Shortly after, she was contacted by figures from the party inviting her to engage with their campaign.
She added: “That wasn’t the right fit then, and nothing has changed. I’m proud to represent a party that stands for constructive, inclusive and forward-looking politics — and that’s where I’ll stay. I cannot understand why Nigel’s party would want to recruit me.”
