Nigel Farage is under formal investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog over a £5m gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne. The Reform UK leader received the money weeks before announcing his candidacy for the 2024 general election.
Farage claims the gift was intended for personal security costs and thus did not require declaration. However, critics argue it falls within rules requiring MPs to declare gifts or donations received in the 12 months before entering parliament. Daniel Greenberg, the parliamentary commissioner for standards, has launched an inquiry under rule 5 of the code of conduct.
If found in serious breach, Farage could face suspension from the Commons. A suspension of 10 days or more might trigger a recall petition, potentially forcing a by-election in his Clacton seat. A Reform UK spokesperson stated Farage's office is cooperating with the commissioner and maintains no rules were broken.
Farage also faces a potential second inquiry from the Electoral Commission after the Conservatives lodged a complaint over the £5m. The commission is considering the complaint and will respond by the end of the week. A Conservative spokesperson called for transparency, while Labour chair Anna Turley welcomed the investigation.
Harborne has been a major donor to Farage and Reform UK, giving £9m to the party last year and £12m in total in 2025. Reform MP Danny Kruger reiterated that the gift was personal, not political, and would fund Farage's security.
