Farage says he skipped Budget amid fear of confrontation

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he skipped Chancellor John Healey’s Budget speech because he feared a confrontation after his prayer card was removed, and wanted to review the plans with advisers. The card’s removal and Farage’s account of an earlier altercation have not been independently established, and MPs disputed his explanation of the seat arrangements. Speaking at a Westminster press conference after the Budget, Farage said he had been involved in a physical altercation with an unnamed MP during the State Opening of Parliament on May 13. He said he had not complained about that incident, but believed the removal of his prayer card could lead to another confrontation. Farage also said he had decided not to attend Prime Minister’s Questions, which took place before the Budget speech, because he anticipated potential conflict. Farage gave a second reason for his absence: he said he spent the time at Reform UK’s offices going through the Budget line by line with a team of economists. He described that as a more useful way to assess the financial plans than sitting in the Commons chamber. The House of Commons spokesperson said members reserve seats using prayer cards...