The Reform Party has sparked debate after a social media post suggested that Gary the Walrus could be deployed to stop illegal boat crossings if the party wins the next election.
The post, shared by the WeGotItBack account on X (formerly Twitter), claimed that Reform was considering using the large marine mammal as a cost-effective method to deter small boat crossings across the English Channel.
Farage’s Comment Sparks Reaction
Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage, who has been closely linked to Reform, allegedly backed the idea, joking:
“He’s cheap and efficient… great value for taxpayers.”
While clearly intended as satire, the post has gained traction online, with supporters and critics of Reform engaging in heated discussions.
Public and Political Reactions
Some social media users found the comment amusing, while others accused Reform of trivialising a serious issue.
- One user wrote: “Desperate times call for desperate measures – if a walrus can do the job, why not?”
- Another commented: “This is the level of political discourse we’ve reached in 2025 – complete nonsense.”
Opponents of the party dismissed the remarks as a publicity stunt, while others questioned the seriousness of Reform’s policies on immigration and border security.
The Channel Crisis Debate Continues
The UK’s illegal migration crisis remains a hot topic, with thousands of people crossing the English Channel in small boats each year. The current Conservative government has introduced policies aimed at deterring crossings, including the controversial Rwanda deportation scheme, but challenges remain.
Reform has consistently criticised the government’s handling of the issue and called for more radical measures to curb illegal immigration.
Gary the Walrus – A National Sensation
The walrus reference stems from Gary the Walrus, a real-life marine mammal that became famous in 2024 for appearing in unexpected locations around the UK. The animal made headlines after basking in harbours, climbing onto boats, and causing chaos in coastal towns.
While it’s unlikely Reform will actually employ a walrus for border control, the viral nature of the post has once again brought the issue of illegal migration into public discussion.
Whether it’s political satire or a sign of Reform’s unconventional messaging, the debate over border security continues to dominate the headlines as the next general election approaches.
