Why Malcolm 'six houses, five cars and six boats' Offord may have a new nickname

Once upon a time, people poked fun at the late Labour Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott over the number of his cars. But now “Two Jags” has been spectacularly eclipsed by Scotland’s own Malcolm “six houses, five cars and six boats” Offord.

Reform UK’s leader in Scotland faced predictable criticism from his political opponents for “tone-deaf” bragging during a live Scottish election TV debate in the midst of what is, for many people, a cost-of-living crisis.

Malcolm 'six boats' Offord has a similar number of houses and cars to choose from (Picture: Paul Reid) | Getty Images

However, there is nothing wrong with being rich and successful. Indeed, if Scotland had more rich and successful people, the country would be all the better for it. “In a 40-year business career, I’ve employed hundreds of thousands of people and paid £45 million in tax,” Offord said. He added that it was not his intention to “boast”, although it’s probably fair to say that’s exactly what it sounded like.

We’ve no reason not to believe him, so he should be congratulated, for all that it was more than a little gauche. Only time will tell if Scotland’s voters were impressed, repulsed or found it all mildly amusing.