Met Police probe Reform UK over foreign donation claims

The Metropolitan Police has launched a criminal investigation into Reform UK over allegations that the party breached foreign donation rules. Scotland Yard confirmed on Thursday, 3 September, that detectives have assessed information and determined there are potential offences requiring investigation.

The investigation stems from a report broadcast by Channel 4 News, which allegedly showed senior figures within Reform UK discussing methods to disguise donations originating from foreign sources. Party leader Nigel Farage was filmed by undercover reporters as part of the report's findings.

Ongoing Investigation

In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said the matters under investigation are similar in nature to existing probes by the Met's Special Enquiry Team concerning donations made to the same political party. The potential offences all relate to breaches of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.

Detectives are seeking to obtain relevant footage related to the Channel 4 News broadcast as part of their enquiries. The police are liaising closely with the Electoral Commission and the Crown Prosecution Service as the investigation progresses.

Party Response

A spokesperson for Reform UK stated that the party denies any wrongdoing and will cooperate fully with the investigation. The party has indicated it will not comment further while the investigation is ongoing.