Lib Dems report Reform UK to the police over donations scandal

​Reform UK has been reported to the Metropolitan Police and the Electoral Commission following an undercover media investigation that revealed a potential plot to bypass party funding laws.
​The Liberal Democrats took swift action after a Channel 4 News report exposed discussions involving senior figures within Nigel Farage's party. The broadcast detailed how James Orr, a senior adviser to the Reform UK leader, allegedly facilitated a £32,500 donation from an impermissible foreign source to fund political polling. The investigation revealed that the funds were allegedly structured to avoid mandatory reporting to the Electoral Commission, constituting a potential breach of sections 56 and 61 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.


​In response to the broadcast, Liberal Democrat Cabinet Office spokesperson Lisa Smart formally wrote to the Met Police's Special Enquiry Team and the Electoral Commission demanding an immediate investigation. In her letter, she highlighted that accepting and concealing a donation from an impermissible donor raises alarming questions regarding potential complacency toward foreign interference in British politics.

​Criticising the party leadership's approach to accountability, Lisa Smart MP Liberal Democrat Cabinet Office Spokesperson said:
​"Farage has always behaved as though the rules apply to everyone but him. These new allegations against Reform look like the latest example, and must be dealt with swiftly by the authorities."

​Reform UK has strongly denied any wrongdoing, characterising the broadcast as a political hoax orchestrated by activists. However, the unfolding scandal has intensified scrutiny on the party's financial transparency, prompting other political figures to demand a full inquiry into the matter.

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