Sarwar denies Reform deal on BBC Question Time

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar clashed with Reform UK figures on BBC Question Time in Aberdeen on Thursday night, denying allegations of seeking a post-election deal with the party and urging voters to back Labour on May 7 to ensure Reform suffers a heavy defeat.

During the programme, hosted by Fiona Bruce, Sarwar dismissed claims of any alliance as "utter nonsense." He told the audience, "I want Reform to get absolutely pumped in this election, so if you want no Reform, vote for me and Labour on May 7." The remarks drew applause and laughter from attendees. Lord Malcolm Offord, leader of Reform UK in Scotland, countered by accusing Sarwar of previously approaching him about working together to remove the SNP from power. Offord, who defected from the Conservatives last year, reiterated his party's commitment to strengthening Scotland's place in the UK and rejected independence referendums.

The exchange escalated a row that began at a Channel 4 leaders debate in Glasgow last week, where Offord claimed Sarwar had suggested collaboration after an event in Paisley Town Hall in December. Sarwar has repeatedly rejected the accusation, describing it as part of a "deliberate,...