Reform UK has appointed Mitchell Palmer, an economist associated with the free-market Adam Smith Institute, to act as a key aide to the party’s economic spokesperson, Robert Jenrick. The appointment has highlighted potential ideological friction within the party, as Palmer’s past public stances on economic policy appear to conflict with some of Reform UK’s established positions.

Specifically, Palmer has previously described the pensions triple lock—a policy that guarantees annual increases to state pensions—as unsustainable. His broader economic philosophy, described as rooted in economic liberalism, also includes past advocacy for the privatization of the NHS and the view that migration can serve as a tool for poverty alleviation. These positions place Palmer to the right of the party's current official platform on several key issues.

The appointment has sparked internal discussion regarding the party's direction. While Reform UK has campaigned on a platform that often emphasizes protecting existing social benefits and restricting migration, the inclusion of an adviser with a history of advocating for free-market reforms and liberalized migration policies suggests a potential shift or a broadening of the party's internal economic debate. The Guardian reports that these appointments are occurring against a backdrop of ongoing tensions within the party regarding how to balance its populist appeal with its long-term economic strategy.