Essex Police are investigating allegations that Reform UK breached electoral law during Nigel Farage's successful campaign to become MP for Clacton in the 2024 general election. The probe follows a complaint from Richard Everett, a former Reform councillor and member of Farage's campaign team, who claims the party falsely reported its election expenses.
According to reports, Everett submitted documents to the Metropolitan Police alleging that Reform UK spent more than the £20,660 limit in the Clacton constituency. He claims the party failed to declare spending on leaflets, banners, utility bills, and the refurbishment of a bar in its campaign office, putting it above the legal cap. However, he suggested Farage himself may have been 'blissfully unaware' of the overspend.
The Metropolitan Police received the 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 of alleged misreported expenditure by a political party in connection with the 2024 general election.
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.'
Labour and Conservative party chairs have called on Farage to cooperate fully with the investigation. Labour's Anna Turley said: 'Nigel Farage needs to reassure the public that he and his party will cooperate fully with the police and put all the evidence they need on the table.' Conservative chair Kevin Hollinrake urged the police and Electoral Commission to investigate the claims.
