The Metropolitan Police is currently evaluating evidence concerning donations made to Robert Jenrick's Conservative Party leadership campaign in 2024. The allegations suggest that almost £40,000 of these contributions originated from a foreign donor, which would constitute a breach of electoral regulations.
Electoral Commission Referral
The Met Police confirmed it received a referral from the Electoral Commission earlier this year. The Commission had been investigating donations linked to a UK-registered company, Spott Fitness Limited. However, it is alleged that £37,500 from this company actually came from a US businessman, Gary Klopfenstein, via his company Innovyz USA. Foreign entities and individuals are prohibited from donating to UK political parties under electoral law.
Timeline of Events
The Electoral Commission stated: “We have been investigating donations connected to a 2024 leadership campaign. Evidence of potential offences outside our remit was referred to the Metropolitan Police Service on 6 January 2026. Our investigation is paused pending their assessment.” The Met Police added: “This referral is under review and until it has been completed, we’re not in a position to comment further.”
Jenrick's Response
A spokesperson for Mr Jenrick told The Guardian that he had complied with electoral laws and was unaware of Mr Klopfenstein's involvement. Phillip Ullman, initially thought to be the donor, stated through a spokesperson that he had been transparent with Jenrick's campaign and voluntarily provided information to the Electoral Commission.
Conservative Party Action
The Conservative Party has written to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, calling for a separate investigation into whether Mr Jenrick—who defected to Reform UK earlier this year—breached the House of Commons Code of Conduct. The party claims the donations were paid into the “Newark Parliamentary Campaign Fund,” a bank account set up through Jenrick's parliamentary office, separate from the local Conservative Association, and that it was unaware of these funds at the time.
Political Reactions
Tory Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake stated: “Foreign donations are illegal. Politicians who funnel and hide unlawful money should face the full force of the law. The police must investigate Reform UK’s spokesman for Financial Affairs Robert Jenrick. The Conservative Party has also reported Mr Jenrick to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, given the apparent serious breach of House of Commons rules. Parliament, the public and the Conservative Party all appear to have been deceived.”
Labour Party chair Anna Turley commented that the news “calls into question whether Jenrick has any respect for the integrity of our politics.” She added: “Reform have tried to dodge questions on the Richard Tice tax scandal. Their new recruit Jenrick must commit to immediately providing the police with the unvarnished truth on this matter.”
Reform UK, Innovyz USA, and Spott Fitness Limited have been contacted for comment.
