Reform UK Clears Officials in Funding Probe Amid Police Inquiry

Reform UK has completed an internal investigation, absolving two senior officials of electoral law violations concerning foreign donations. Despite the party's findings, both individuals remain suspended as a separate police inquiry into potential breaches of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 continues.

Party Dismisses Circumvention Claims

The internal report addressed allegations that officials discussed ways to bypass prohibitions on overseas funding. These discussions included the potential use of third-party payments for polling and donations channeled through UK-based relatives.

The party concluded that no impermissible funds were accepted and no formal agreements were finalized. It characterized the recorded discussions as "unwise" but not legally actionable, and found no evidence that officials knowingly entered into arrangements for impermissible donations.

New Governance Protocols Implemented

To reduce future regulatory risks, Reform UK has introduced new governance protocols. These measures require written notification to the treasurer's office for all proposed donations and mandate background checks before any formal meetings with prospective donors take place.

Reform UK

The party also stated its intention to pursue legal action against the organization responsible for the undercover footage that initiated the scrutiny.

Farage Attended Undercover Meeting

Nigel Farage, a prominent figure in Reform UK, met with undercover reporters posing as prospective donors over lunch in Clacton. He did not object when the alleged scheme for circumventing funding rules was explained, though he later claimed he had not been listening.