Reform UK donations investigated by police

Reform UK faced fresh scrutiny after The Times reported that London's Metropolitan Police were investigating about £500,000 in donations to the party from Fiona Cottrell, the mother of convicted fraudster George Cottrell.

A police spokesperson said officers opened an inquiry in February 2025 after a referral from the Electoral Commission, which oversees elections and political finance in the UK. The spokesperson said two people had been interviewed under caution, early investigative advice had been sought from prosecutors and no arrests had been made.

The Times reported that Fiona Cottrell, described as a wealthy aristocrat, made the payments before the July 2024 general election, when Reform leader Nigel Farage became an MP for the first time.

Farage denies wrongdoing in all cases involving alleged donations. Reform deputy leader Richard Tice called the reports about Fiona Cottrell a “politically motivated smear” against the party.

The case comes as Farage prepares to contest a by-election in Clacton, southeast England, after resigning as MP. Tendring District Council said the vote will take place on August 13 and that potential candidates must submit nominations between July 14 and 17.

Count Binface, a self-described “intergalactic space warrior,” is among those who have confirmed they will stand against Farage. Other main parties are refusing to field candidates, according to the supplied material.