We need a party that understands what Britain can become

As co-founder of a think-tank dedicated to advancing democracy and fighting extremism, Alan Mendoza believes Nigel Farage and his Reform UK have what it takes to tackle the 'narrative of decline' and turn Britain's fortunes around

- David Williamson

While the UK faces significant threats from Russia and China, its future hinges on tackling a "crisis" which is endangering the British spirit and Nigel Farage is just the man for the job. That is the view of Reform UK's new chief adviser on global affairs who is also the co-founder of a think tank dedicated to fighting extremism, advancing democracy and protecting "real human rights".

The defection of Alan Mendoza from the Conservatives to Mr Farage's party is among the latest signs that a growing number of seriousminded figures believe the veteran Brexiteer has a real chance of becoming Prime Minister.

Mr Mendoza sees Reform as a welcome source of badly needed "dynamism".

"It's coming from a new party that has a vision to transform and turn Britain around and to avert this terrible crisis that we are in," he says.

"That is the interesting bit of this, not that the Conservatives may have lost their way." He sees a direct link between the difficulty the Ministry of Defence faces recruiting members of the armed forces and Britain's perceived "funk".

People will not feel pride in the UK or be inspired to defend these borders, he warns, if they are "constantly told that the country is in a funk, that things are getting worse rather than better, or that we have to apologise for the sins of the past and have somehow done wrong to the world".

It is vital Britain has the strength to deploy forces overseas, he argues, because "it might be that the strategic threat you face is somewhere away from your home shore, and dealing with it there is a more appropriate and ultimately safer measure than waiting for it to come to you".

Mr Mendoza wants Britons to know they live in "one of the greatest countries in the world" with a "glorious history". He longs for the narrative of "decline and demise" to be challenged so the nation can look forward to a better future.