From Marbella to South London: Charlie Mullins Eyes a Political Comeback

Charlie Mullins, famously known as Britain’s richest plumber, is contemplating a return to the UK political scene, fuelled by his support for Reform UK's recent electoral successes. After cashing in on a lucrative £145 million deal from selling his company, Pimlico Plumbers, in 2021, Mullins has been enjoying a life of leisure in Spain and Dubai, claiming to have fled the UK to escape what he terms a “Labour tax grab.”

At 72, Mullins exudes a sense of contentment in his current life abroad but remains enthusiastic about the possibility of standing as a local councillor, particularly in his native South London. He mentioned specific boroughs such as Bermondsey, Lambeth, or Southwark, which he believes are in dire need of revitalisation. “They need people who know what it takes to start a business,” he stated, reflecting on his belief that local governance should be steered by pragmatic business acumen.

Encouragement from Reform UK’s recent performance in the local elections, where the party secured over 650 council seats, has reignited his ambitions. Mullins views this electoral shift as a sign that the political landscape in the UK is diversifying—no longer just a two-horse race between Labour and the Conservatives. He expressed a commitment to contribute: “The more Reform progresses, the more I want to get involved with them.”

This is not the first time Mullins has indicated a desire to enter the political arena. However, in the past, he backed away from a potential candidacy after facing threats of having his OBE (Order of the British Empire) revoked. His exchange with the Honours Forfeiture Committee stemmed from remarks he made on social media regarding London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, prompting questions about whether his comments represented a broader pattern of conduct incompatible with the honour he received in 2018.

Nevertheless, Mullins asserts that it was the political climate in the UK, especially the foreboding taxation policies under Labour, that pushed him to relocate. His observations about the contrasting lifestyles between Spain and the UK reveal a sense of optimism he finds lacking back home. “People are happier in Spain compared to the UK, where a doom-and-gloom attitude seeps into everyday life,” he noted, emphasising the more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere he experiences in Málaga.

Notably, Mullins has been vocal about his discontent with Labour’s tax plans, particularly with respect to proposed increases in inheritance tax and capital gains tax. He argues that these policies penalise successful individuals and threaten the entrepreneurial spirit that is crucial for economic growth. Speaking to media outlets, he has consistently highlighted that while he is prepared to pay taxes, he is also keenly aware of the fiscal mismanagement he perceives within the system.

As for the future, Mullins' ambitions extend beyond just local council elections; he expressed willingness to run for a by-election if the opportunity arises, particularly if it facilitates a stronger presence for Reform UK in Westminster. As he remarked, “If Nigel Farage comes in, I’ll be back in the UK tomorrow.” This statement not only underscores his allegiance to the party but also hints at his expectations for the political ramifications of Farage’s potential involvement.

Mullins is currently splitting his time between a luxurious apartment in Westminster and a lavish villa in the Costa del Sol, suggesting he is not completely detached from his UK roots. His inclination to remain engaged in British politics reflects both his entrepreneurial spirit and his lingering affection for his homeland.

As the political landscape evolves ahead of the next local council elections in 2026 and the general elections scheduled for 2029, Mullins' potential candidacy may well signal a noteworthy shift in how independent-minded entrepreneurs could influence local governance in the UK.

Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services