Boston and Skegness MP Richard Tice stands by Nigel Farage as Reform UK leader after Elon Musk’s social media comments

The MP for Boston and Skegness has stood by Nigel Farage as the leader of Reform UK after Elon Musk suggested he "doesn't have what it takes" to lead the party.

Deputy party leader Richard Tice has insisted that Farage is the "best man for the job," not only to lead the party but also to be the next Prime Minister.

Billionaire Tesla CEO Musk recently criticised Farage in a post on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, writing: "The Reform Party needs a new leader."

This follows Farage rejecting Musk's calls for Reform UK to join forces with jailed far-right figure Tommy Robinson. The party leader distanced himself from Robinson after the tech billionaire called for him to be released from prison.

In response to Musk's post, Tice stated: "The delight of free speech is that we can celebrate Mr Musk's amazing products and entrepreneurship, but we can disagree on some other things.

"We are clear in our plan for Nigel to be the next PM after the next general election. He is the best man for the job."

Farage responded to Musk on X, stating: "Well, this is a surprise."

He added: "Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform and I never sell out my principles."