Reform UK Split Over Burqa Ban Proposal

A political controversy erupted after Reform MP Sarah Pochin called for a national burqa ban during Prime Minister's Questions, prompting immediate backlash from both Labour MPs and members of her own party. Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf denounced the proposal as 'dumb' and resigned, while party officials clarified that a burqa ban is not official party policy, though they acknowledged the issue merits national debate. Prime Minister Keir Starmer rejected the proposal and instead criticized Reform UK's economic plans. Some Reform MPs, including Lee Anderson, supported the ban, while party leader Nigel Farage distanced himself from outright endorsement but advocated for broader discussion on face coverings. The debate exposed divisions within Reform UK and Parliament, with critics opposing restrictions on personal dress and others referencing bans in Muslim-majority countries. The controversy has reignited wider discussions on religious freedom, public safety, and cultural integration in Britain.