Piers Morgan has demanded that Nigel Farage be removed as leader of Reform UK after revelations that Farage failed to disclose a major donor with a criminal record. The broadcaster posted two messages on X within 40 minutes, first stating "The bungs keep on coming..." and then declaring "He has to go."
Undisclosed support from convicted criminal
Farage accepted accommodation, drivers, and security paid for by George Cottrell, a convicted money launderer jailed in the US. The support began a year before Farage won the Clacton-on-Sea parliamentary seat. According to the Sunday Times, Farage stayed in a five-storey townhouse rented by Cottrell, who has no official role in Reform but is described by insiders as Farage's closest aide.
Farage defended his actions, arguing the pre-election support predated his decision to run for parliament. He also claimed he does not need to disclose use of Cottrell's townhouse because it is provided by a close friend. Cottrell stated he expected nothing in return and did not need Farage's help.
Cottrell's gambling ties
Cottrell is heavily involved in Tether.bet, an offshore online bookmaker specializing in cryptocurrency transfers. Middlemen facilitating the site for wealthy UK customers directed deposits into companies owned by Mowbray Jackson, a Reform employee and data protection officer, and David Robery, a consultant to Tether.bet. Both men declined to comment to the Sunday Times.
Reform UK's response
A Reform spokesman dismissed the story as "baseless and contrived," noting that the period in question was before Farage became an elected politician. The spokesman added: "Contrary to the story's tone, no parliamentary rules have been broken. We also understand The Sunday Times has a new podcast to promote, which it seems very excited about. Its agenda should be plain for all to see." The Daily Express has contacted Reform UK for further comment.
