Reform Party MP Lee Anderson has called for a public referendum on reinstating the death penalty in the United Kingdom, arguing that voters would back the measure even though Parliament remains opposed. Anderson, who serves as chairman of the Reform Party, told reporters he believes the issue highlights a disconnect between lawmakers and the public.

“This is how out of touch I think Parliament is,” Anderson said. “I think the public would vote for the death penalty. Parliament would never vote for the death penalty.” He acknowledged that he has yet to persuade party leader Nigel Farage, who has consistently opposed reintroducing capital punishment.

The debate over the death penalty remains contentious in Britain, where capital punishment was abolished in the 1960s and has faced little political momentum for reinstatement since. However, polling data indicates modest public support for the measure. A YouGov poll conducted last year reported that a slight majority of respondents favored bringing back the death penalty, underscoring ongoing public interest in the topic.

Anderson’s call comes amid broader discussions about criminal justice and law enforcement policies in the UK. While Parliament continues to reject capital punishment, the Reform MP’s push for a referendum aims to give citizens a direct say on the issue. The government has not announced any plans to hold such a vote.