The government will announce new measures on Monday to crack down on large political donations, including restrictions on foreign-based benefactors. The move comes as Nigel Farage faces potential further investigation into gifts received from convicted fraudster George Cottrell.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed said: 'British democracy is not for sale. These tough new rules will shut down dodgy funding, stop foreign money influencing our elections and keep our democracy strong.' The changes include a £100,000 donation cap for individuals who have moved to the UK from abroad within the past year.
New checks will also assess whether companies making political donations are legitimate by measuring profit alongside revenue. Candidates will be required to declare donations above £2,230, including those received before becoming a candidate. The reforms will be introduced as amendments to the representation of the people bill.
The Sunday Times revealed that Farage accepted benefits from Cottrell, including staff for his social media team, security, and use of a mansion near Buckingham Palace. Farage registered a £9,253 donation for a trip to Belgium and a £15,276 donation for a US flight, but did not declare other benefits. Reform UK said these were personal gifts unconnected to political activities.
Robert Jenrick, the shadow communities secretary, acknowledged that Cottrell paid for staff to run Farage's social media in 2024, but argued that gifts from a personal friend before becoming an MP are permissible in a purely personal capacity. James Murray, the health secretary, said the revelations raise 'quite a lot of questions'.
