A Reform UK councillor has downplayed Zia Yusuf's departure from the party, insisting the exit was not the result of significant conflict. The ex-Reform UK Chairman sensationally quit on Thursday, claiming that working with the party is "no longer a good use of my time".

Zia Yusuf resigned as chairman of Reform UK after 11 months in the job, delivering a blow to its leader, Nigel Farage, who has promised to build and professionalize the insurgent party in a quest for power at the next general election.

Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has been dealt a major blow after the party’s chairman resigned following a row over banning the burka. Zia Yusuf announced on Thursday that he was quitting the role he has held for almost a year.