STORY
Reform UK has been hit by fresh allegations over Nigel Farage’s financial transparency after reports that he received undeclared support from George Cottrell, a crypto entrepreneur who was previously convicted of wire fraud in the United States. The allegations, published by The Sunday Times, detail support said to have included security, social media staff and accommodation near Buckingham Palace.
Farage and Reform UK deny any wrongdoing. The party has said that the support in question was personal and was provided before Farage became an MP, meaning it was not subject to mandatory disclosure under parliamentary rules.
The claims add to scrutiny of Farage’s finances after he was already placed under investigation by the parliamentary standards commissioner over a separate £5 million gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne. The Liberal Democrats have called for the watchdog to examine the latest claims relating to Cottrell as part of wider questions about Farage’s declarations.
The Sunday Times reported that Cottrell, known as “Posh George”, had provided support to Farage during his political comeback, including funding for security, use of a luxury residence, social media help and other logistical assistance. The newspaper said the support raised questions about whether benefits connected to political activity should have been declared.