Essex Police are assessing allegations that Reform UK breached electoral law during Nigel Farage's successful campaign to become MP for Clacton at last year's general election. The claims, made by former Reform councillor Richard Everett, suggest the party falsely reported election expenses, potentially exceeding the £20,660 spending limit for the constituency.
Everett, who served on Farage's campaign team, has reportedly submitted documents to the Metropolitan Police alleging that spending on leaflets, banners, utility bills, and a bar refurbishment at the Clacton campaign office was not declared. He claims the party reported being just £400 under the legal limit, but the undeclared costs would have pushed it over.
Reform UK has strongly denied the allegations, describing Everett as a "disgruntled former councillor" who was expelled from the party months ago. A party 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 urged Farage to "break his silence" and cooperate fully with the police, while Conservative chair Kevin Hollinrake called on both the police and the Electoral Commission to investigate the claims. The allegations come as Farage faces separate criticism over historical racism claims from former school peers.
The Metropolitan Police received the initial report on 5 December and referred it to Essex Police due to the location of the alleged offences. Essex Police confirmed they are assessing a report relating to alleged misreported expenditure by a political party in connection with the 2024 general election.
