Reform UK is facing intense scrutiny following an undercover investigation that reveals an alleged foreign donation plot. The revelations implicate key aides within the party, just ahead of its annual conference.
The probe, conducted by investigative journalists, used individuals posing as a potential supporter and his affluent American father. This “impermissible donor” reportedly funded £30,000 worth of polling, which directly benefited Reform UK.
Crucially, this polling was never publicly attributed to the party. National newspapers published its findings without knowledge of Reform’s commissioning or the foreign source of funding. Moreover, the benefit-in-kind was not declared to the Electoral Commission.
In filmed meetings, Dan Jukes, a senior advisor to Nigel Farage, reportedly suggested methods to channel a substantial US donation via a UK-based son. Farage himself was filmed saying “Thank you both” to the undercover operatives when this potential structure was explained.
Furthermore, James Orr, Reform UK’s head of policy, discussed commissioning polling funded by the US father. Orr suggested Farage “doesn’t know, won’t know” about the arrangement, adding it was something he would “rather not know.”
Despite this, Farage was later seen on camera in Clacton, celebrating the poll’s success. He called it “amazing” and offering “bang for buck,” concluding: “It worked. Boom.” Jukes also allegedly referred to the undercover operative as a “key donor for off-the-book project.”
Opposition leaders have swiftly reacted. Labour’s Bridget Phillipson stated the “scandal goes right to the top of Reform UK.” Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged police and the Electoral Commission to launch investigations.
Reform UK, however, has denied any wrongdoing. The party claims it was the target of a “hoax perpetuated by foreign-funded climate-change activists.” They assert their donor vetting process is robust and approved by the Electoral Commission.
This investigation adds to existing pressures on Reform UK’s finances, already under a standards inquiry and police probe. Farage is scheduled to speak at the party conference on Friday, where he plans to highlight record donations.
The party recently declared over £5 million in donations for the second quarter, outperforming rivals. However, its reliance on a few “mega-donors,” particularly those based abroad, creates potential issues under new £100,000 annual caps for overseas funders.
Ben Delo, a crypto entrepreneur, for instance, recently gave £4 million. While Hong Kong-based previously, he reportedly moved back to the UK in April. Reform remains confident this significant sum will comply with future legislation.
Christopher Harborne, a Thailand-based billionaire, has also contributed £15 million to the party and £5 million personally to Farage. This £5 million gift, given before the last election, is currently subject to a separate investigation by the standards commissioner.
