Overview
- Former Reform aide Richard Everett submitted documents to the Metropolitan Police alleging undeclared local expenses in Clacton that could push spending about £9,000 over the £20,660.72 legal limit.
- The alleged omissions include costs for leaflets, banners, utility bills, a Reform-themed bar at the campaign office, and the loan of an armoured Land Rover used during a rally.
- Reform UK’s return reported £20,299.80 in candidate spending, and the party says the claims come from a disgruntled ex-councillor it expelled as it flatly denies breaking electoral law.
- If proven, Nigel Farage and his election agent Peter Harris could face personal liability under electoral law, though any prosecution must navigate statutory time limits and legal process.
- The Electoral Commission has been asked to examine Reform UK’s handling of crypto-related donations after a recorded £9m gift from investor Christopher Harborne and Farage’s public promotion of Tether, even as Farage says Harborne’s donation was not in crypto.