London’s Metropolitan Police has launched a criminal investigation into allegations that Reform UK breached British electoral funding rules, intensifying scrutiny of Nigel Farage’s party after an undercover investigation raised questions about potential foreign donations. Reform UK has denied wrongdoing and said it will cooperate fully with authorities.
Metropolitan Police Expands Inquiry Into Reform UK Finances
The Metropolitan Police said detectives had received several reports following a broadcast on Sept. 3 concerning political donations and polling. After assessing the information, investigators concluded that potential offences warranted further investigation.
Police said the new allegations are similar to issues already being examined by the force’s Special Enquiry Team in connection with donations made to Reform UK. The matters will therefore be incorporated into the existing investigation.
The investigation is being conducted under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, which sets rules governing political donations and campaign finance in the United Kingdom. Detectives are also seeking footage connected with the undercover investigation and are liaising with the Electoral Commission and Crown Prosecution Service.
Undercover Footage Raises Questions Over Foreign Funding
The police inquiry follows an undercover investigation broadcast by Channel 4 that featured senior Reform UK figures speaking with people posing as wealthy American donors.
According to reports, discussions included a proposal involving a potential £500,000 contribution that could have been routed through a person with a UK connection. British electoral law restricts political parties from accepting donations from overseas sources that do not meet the required eligibility criteria.
Two senior Reform figures, Dan Jukes and James Orr, stepped down following the broadcast. Reform UK has disputed the allegations and previously described the operation as a hoax or an attempt to entrap the party.
Reform UK Denies Wrongdoing as Pressure Mounts
Reform UK said it had not broken the law and would fully cooperate with the police investigation. The party has declined to comment further while the inquiry remains active.
Nigel Farage has also rejected allegations of wrongdoing. The controversy comes as Reform UK faces wider scrutiny over its financial affairs, including separate questions surrounding a £5 million gift linked to Farage.
The latest investigation could add to political pressure on Reform UK as the party attempts to maintain its support and establish itself as a major force in British politics. No conclusion of wrongdoing has been reached, and the police investigation remains ongoing.
