Advance UK has confirmed that Cambridgeshire County Councillor Desmond Watt will sit as an Advance UK councillor, marking a further step in the party’s efforts to expand its presence in local government and promote a politics rooted in principle, accountability and local democracy.
A move aimed at strengthening local representation
Councillor Watt, who represents communities in Cambridgeshire and continues to serve as a parish councillor in Yaxley and Farcet, has agreed jointly with Advance UK to align himself with the party. The move reflects a shared view that elected representatives should be free to act in the interests of their constituents, without undue direction from central party structures.
Advance UK was established on the premise that British politics should prioritise clear principles, respect for experience and service to local communities. The party positions itself as an alternative to what it describes as personality-led politics and highly centralised decision-making, arguing that such approaches can weaken democratic accountability at local level.
From Reform UK to an independent stance
Following his election to Cambridgeshire County Council, Cllr Watt served within Reform UK and was appointed party whip. Over time, however, he became increasingly concerned about what he saw as a lack of genuine local autonomy, alongside the marginalisation of experienced councillors.
According to Advance UK, Cllr Watt raised concerns about decisions affecting local representatives being taken centrally, with limited consultation and insufficient regard for local circumstances. These issues ultimately led him to step away from party structures and serve for a period as an independent councillor, while continuing his work at parish level.
A search for a principled political alternative
After a period of reflection, Cllr Watt concluded that there was a need for a political movement capable of offering a credible alternative to both established parties and newer movements driven primarily by high-profile leadership figures.
Explaining his decision to align with Advance UK, Cllr Watt said:
“I entered politics to serve my community honestly and responsibly. Over time, it became clear to me that British politics needs a party that values principle over personality, experience over control, and integrity over convenience. Advance UK offers exactly that. It is grounded in clear values, respectful of local democracy, and serious about restoring trust between voters and those who represent them.”
Leadership response from Advance UK
Ben Habib, leader of Advance UK, said Cllr Watt embodied the qualities the party aims to promote in public life. He described him as an experienced and principled councillor with strong roots in the communities he serves.
“Desmond Watt represents the kind of public servant Britain needs more of,” Mr Habib said. “He understands that politics is not about personal power or centralised control, but about duty, accountability and respect for the democratic process. We are pleased that he will sit as an Advance UK councillor as we work to bring seriousness and principle back into British politics.”
Emphasis on experience and local democracy
Advance UK has made clear that it places a high value on the role of experienced councillors, arguing that judgement developed over many years in public service should be respected rather than overridden by national party directives. The party advocates a looser organisational structure, designed to empower local representatives to respond to the specific needs of their areas.
Cllr Watt’s decision is presented by the party as part of a broader trend, with some elected officials and voters expressing dissatisfaction with traditional party politics and seeking alternatives that emphasise integrity, democratic accountability and the national interest.
Looking ahead
Advance UK says it will continue to welcome councillors and supporters who share its approach to politics and its focus on restoring trust between elected representatives and the public. The addition of a serving county councillor in Cambridgeshire is seen as a step towards building a stronger local government presence ahead of future elections.
As debates about local autonomy and party control continue to shape the UK’s political landscape, the move highlights ongoing tensions between national party leadership and councillors working at the front line of local democracy.
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