Reform UK's Robert Jenrick has expressed full confidence that his party adhered to electoral laws following reports about donor George Cottrell transferring over two million dollars to his mother before she made donations to the party in 2024.
The Guardian reported that George Cottrell transferred more than two million dollars (£1.5 million) to his mother Fiona Cottrell shortly before she donated to Reform UK. The party's finances have been under scrutiny, and the Metropolitan Police are examining whether donors may have circumvented restrictions on political funding sources.
When asked if he was certain the money came from permissible sources, Mr Jenrick stated that the donations were from some time ago and that the party is entirely confident it followed all electoral rules at the time. He added that Reform will cooperate with any inquiries but noted that the party has not been contacted by the police.
Details of the Transfers
According to The Guardian, Ms Cottrell is believed to have received one deposit of 1.4 million dollars followed by two tranches of more than 300,000 dollars each. She allegedly told bankers the money came from her son when questioned about the deposits. The transfers occurred 24 to 72 hours before she donated to Reform UK or to Britain Means Business, a fundraising company.
The Met's investigation specifically concerns donations to Reform UK from Britain Means Business, whose director is the party's deputy leader Richard Tice. The Times previously reported that the firm gave Reform two donations of £250,000 in the run-up to the 2024 general election. Mr Tice has previously stated that the money was paid to his company by Ms Cottrell.
Background on Donor
Reports suggest Ms Cottrell gave £1 million to Britain Means Business in June 2024, with half of that amount subsequently given to Reform. George Cottrell, a convicted criminal, provided funding for Nigel Farage's security and staffing in the year before he was elected.
