Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has been reported to the Metropolitan Police following serious allegations of falsifying election expenses during his campaign in Clacton.
Former Aide Alleges Significant Overspend
The explosive claims come from Richard Everett, a former Reform councillor and member of Mr Farage's campaign team. Everett has submitted a dossier to police alleging that local campaign costs in the Essex seaside constituency were wrongly reported as national party spending.
This potential breach of electoral law could see Mr Farage and his election agent, Peter Harris, held personally liable in court if the allegations are proven. Everett's role included monitoring election expenses and escorting Mr Farage during the campaign after his defection from the Conservatives.
The Specific Claims and Party Denial
Official documents show Reform's spending in Clacton came within £400 of the legal limit of £20,660.72, recording an expenditure of £20,299.80. However, Everett contends this figure is inaccurate and excludes several key costs.
He alleges the party failed to declare:
- The refurbishment of a blue Reform-themed bar within the campaign office.
- The loan of an armoured Land Rover used by Mr Farage during a rally on Clacton Pier as a donation.
Everett estimates the true overspend could be around £9,000, though he stated Mr Farage was likely "blissfully unaware" of the omissions. A Reform spokesman vehemently denied any wrongdoing, labelling Everett a "disgruntled former councillor" expelled months ago for "inappropriate sexual behaviour with women" – claims which Everett denies.
Legal Ramifications and Calls for Investigation
Electoral law strictly regulates campaign spending, separating national party expenditure from local candidate spending. National parties have higher limits but cannot use funds to directly promote a specific candidate using their name or a local area photograph.
The dossier sent to the Met is understood to include Reform's official spending submission, photographs of campaign materials, and expense receipts. Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake has called for a "full investigation" by both the Electoral Commission and police to "establish the facts".
The Metropolitan Police has not yet confirmed receipt of the report. A Reform spokesman said: "The party denies breaking electoral law. We look forward to clearing our name."
