Nigel Farage has named Malcolm Offord as the new leader of Reform UK in Scotland.
Having defected from the Conservative Party in December 2025, the former Scottish Tory minister will now lead Reform UK's campaign for the upcoming Holyrood election in May.
Who is Malcolm Offord – the new leader of Reform UK in Scotland? This guide tells you everything you need to know.
Who is Malcolm Offord?
Malcolm Offord, formally Lord Offord of Garvel, is a Scottish businessman and politician who sits in the House of Lords.
Known for combining a long career in finance with senior roles in UK government, the millionaire was elevated to the peerage in 2021, in turn becoming a visible Conservative figure representing Scottish interests at Westminster.
In December 2025, Offord defected from the Scottish Tories to join Nigel Farage's Reform UK party.
What government roles has Malcolm Offord held?
Malcolm Offord served as a Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Scotland Office, where he acted as a UK government minister focused on Scottish constitutional, economic, and intergovernmental matters.
He later moved to the Department for Business and Trade as a junior minister with responsibility for exports. In that role, he promoted UK trade, export finance, and international commercial engagement.
Offord's appointments reflected his professional background in finance and markets.
When did Malcolm Offord join Reform UK?
Offord attracted significant attention after leaving the Conservative Party to join Reform UK in December 2025, becoming the party’s first member in the House of Lords.
The move was seen as symbolically important for Reform UK as it sought to expand its credibility and presence, particularly in Scotland.
Offord framed the decision as part of a wider political realignment and signalled an intention to pursue elected office rather than remain in the Lords.
In early January 2026, Offord publicly stated a desire to become the Scottish leader of Reform UK.
What is Malcolm Offord’s background in business and finance?
Before entering politics, Offord built a career in finance, investment, and private equity, working in senior roles and founding investment ventures linked to Edinburgh-based firms.
His business background is frequently highlighted as a key influence on his political outlook, particularly his emphasis on growth, competitiveness, exports, and market-driven policy.
This commercial experience is said to have distinguished him from many career politicians and underpinned his suitability for trade and economic portfolios in government.
What is Malcolm Offord known for in the House of Lords?
In the House of Lords, Offord is known for his previous contributions to debates on economic regulation, markets, and governance.
Offord's Lords role also drew attention through media scrutiny and political controversy, particularly following his party switch.
Share