Ben Habib and Rupert Lowe clash as both announce new Reform UK rivals on same day

Ben Habib and Rupert Lowe have both announced they are launching separate Reform UK rival movements this morning, sparking a mixture of criticism and support from fans. Both politicians who have had furious fallings out with Nigel Farage over the past year coincidentally announced their new right-wing political projects on X today.

Mr Lowe, the more prominent of the two as a sitting MP, announced he is founding "Restore Britain", a new movement but not a political party, putting together policy prescriptions for Britain and lobbying the Government. He announced: "I do not have all the answers. I am not a politician. I find myself in Parliament, independent and isolated without a party. But strangely, during my time in politics, I have never felt more part of a team. There are good, talented, dedicated people all over the country who are tired of petty Westminster politics."

"Now is not the time for another political party. It is our job to bring people together, providing a vehicle that can deliver the radical restoration that is required."

The Great Yarmouth MP said Restore Britain will not only put together a plan to "slash immigration, protect British culture, restore Christian principles, carpet-bomb the cancer of wokery", but also execute private prosecutions to fight issues in the courts.

He said as an elected MP he is "uniquely positioned to hold the Government to account", citing his recent campaigns on the rape gang inquiry and petitions over Lucy Connolly.

In what appeared to be a coincidence, Mr Lowe's announcement came hours after Ben Habib, a former Reform MEP and deputy leader, announced his own rival party "Advance UK".

Mr Habib had a furious falling out with Nigel Farage after being relieved of his deputy party leadership following the general election.

The former MEP said his party "will stand for the entire country in all its parts and for all its people."

"We will fight for nation, freedom of speech, democracy and equality before the law."

He contrasted Advance UK to Reform UK, promising it will be "democratic".

Mr Habib set out a goal of achieving 30,000 members, each paying £10 a year to join up.

However followers of Mr Habib voiced concerns that his squabble with Mr Farage risks backfiring and splitting the right-wing vote.

Emma Rock replied: "I really respect you Ben and wish you and the party all the luck in the world but I do worry re splitting the vote and Labour just winning again which would seal the death knell of this country".

Another user agreed, warning: "We need to unite more than ever and stand behind reform to get this woke c**p out our country."

However Mr Lowe's supporters seemed more enthused, with right-wing internet personality Sargon of Akkad replying: "It's time. I have joined."