Metropolitan Police Investigate Reform UK Donations and Funding

The Metropolitan Police are investigating £500,000 in donations made to Reform UK by Britain Means Business, a fundraising company controlled by the party's deputy leader, Richard Tice. The probe, launched in February 2025 following a referral from the Electoral Commission, focuses on alleged offences under Section 61 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.

Reports indicate donor Fiona Cottrell transferred £1 million to Britain Means Business in June 2024, half of which was then passed to the party. The National Crime Agency is currently tracing the source of the original £1 million after bankers flagged the transfer via a suspicious activity report. Detectives from the Special Enquiry Team have interviewed two individuals under caution, including Cottrell and her son, George, a convicted fraudster, though no arrests have been made.

Richard Tice dismissed the investigation as a "politically motivated smear campaign," while Reform UK maintains it follows all Electoral Commission guidelines. A Labour Party spokesperson described the situation as part of a pattern of "sleaze and donation scandals."

Separately, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage announced he will resign as MP for Clacton to trigger a by-election. This resignation follows questions regarding a £5 million gift from billionaire Christopher Harborne. The financial scrutiny comes amid reports that the party's bank account was frozen during the 2024 general election.