Essex Police are assessing allegations that Reform UK breached electoral law during Nigel Farage's campaign for the Clacton seat in last year's general election. The force confirmed on Monday it is looking into a report of misreported expenditure by a political party, following a referral from the Metropolitan Police.
The claims were made by Richard Everett, a former Reform councillor and member of Farage's campaign team. According to the Daily Telegraph, Everett alleges the party failed to declare spending on leaflets, banners, utility bills, and the refurbishment of a bar in its Clacton campaign office. He claims the undeclared spending would have pushed the total above the £20,660 legal limit, though he believes Farage was "blissfully unaware".
Reform UK has strongly denied the allegations, describing Everett as a "disgruntled former councillor" who was expelled from the party months ago. A spokesperson said: "These inaccurate claims come from a disgruntled former councillor. The party denies breaking electoral law. We look forward to clearing our name."
Political opponents have called for transparency. Labour chair Anna Turley said: "Nigel Farage needs to reassure the public that he and his party will cooperate fully with the police... Electoral fraud is a very serious crime which fundamentally undermines our democracy." Conservative chair Kevin Hollinrake urged the police and Electoral Commission to investigate, stating: "We all have an obligation to play by the rules to ensure that our elections are free and fair."
The investigation comes as Farage faces renewed scrutiny over past racism allegations, with former Dulwich College peers speaking out. Farage has denied being racist or antisemitic with "malice".
