Police are investigating allegations that Reform UK exceeded legal spending limits during last year’s general election. The probe follows claims from former Reform UK councillor Richard Everett.
Mr Everett, previously part of Nigel Farage’s campaign team, told the Daily Telegraph he believes the party overspent while campaigning in Clacton. He submitted documents to the Metropolitan Police suggesting the party exceeded the £20,660 limit in the Essex constituency.
Essex Police confirmed on Monday that it is reviewing the claims. A spokesperson said: “We are assessing a report relating to alleged misreported expenditure by a political party in connection with the 2024 general election, following a referral to us by the Met Police.”
According to Mr Everett, Reform UK failed to declare spending on leaflets, banners, utility bills, and the refurbishment of a bar in its Clacton campaign office. He added that the party’s official returns reported it came just £400 under the legal limit. He claimed that the undeclared spending would have exceeded the cap.
However, he said he believes Nigel Farage himself was “blissfully unaware” of the overspending.
Labour Party chairwoman Anna Turley called for answers. She said: “Nigel Farage needs to urgently answer serious questions about whether he broke the law and misled the public when standing for election. Our parliamentary democracy relies on people playing by the rules. All candidates must have a fair hearing with the public.” She added that failure to clarify could raise further doubts about what Mr Farage may be hiding.
Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake also urged an investigation. He said: “We all have an obligation to play by the rules to ensure elections are free and fair.”
Mr Everett, who previously defected from the Conservatives to Reform UK, has since left the party. He now serves as an Independent councillor.
Reform UK denied wrongdoing. A spokesman said: “These inaccurate claims come from a disgruntled former councillor. The party denies breaking electoral law and looks forward to clearing its name.”
The investigation highlights ongoing scrutiny of political spending. Authorities will assess whether any legal limits were breached and ensure transparency in the electoral process.
Reform UK spending has now become a focal point for questions about election conduct and the responsibilities of party leaders.
For more UK political news update, stay tuned to London Pulse News.
