Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is confronting the prospect of a second official investigation into his election campaign finances, following allegations of a significant overspend in his Clacton constituency.
Labour Demands Electoral Commission Scrutiny
The Labour Party has formally requested the Electoral Commission to examine claims that Farage's campaign breached strict spending limits. Labour chair Anna Turley has called on the Reform leader to "urgently come out of hiding" and address what she termed "incredibly serious" allegations.
The controversy centres on a whistleblower's report to the Daily Telegraph, which claims the Clacton campaign failed to declare expenditure on items including campaign leaflets, banners, utility bills, and the refurbishment of a local bar used as a campaign office. The alleged undeclared spending totals approximately £9,000.
Whistleblower Alleges Spending Cap Breach
The accusations were made by Richard Everett, a former Reform councillor and member of Farage's campaign team. Everett alleges that the campaign's official return reported spending just £400 under the legal limit of £20,660. The inclusion of the allegedly undeclared costs would have pushed the total well over that cap.
In her letter to the watchdog, Turley warned: "If expenditure that ought to have been declared in Mr Farage’s return in Clacton has been included in Reform’s national spending return, or elements of national party expenditure have not been declared at all, there is a real risk that Reform’s party spending return is inaccurate or incomplete."
Reform UK has issued a strong denial. A party spokesperson stated: "The party denies breaking electoral law. We look forward to clearing our name." The spokesperson characterised Everett as a "disgruntled former councillor." Everett defected from the Conservatives to Reform last year and now sits as an independent.
Police Assessments and Ongoing Fallout
The Electoral Commission confirmed it is "considering your letter and assessing other information" in line with its enforcement policy under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000. This follows an initial police referral.
It was reported that Everett first made a complaint to the Metropolitan Police in early December. The Met later transferred the matter to Essex Police due to the location of the alleged offences. Both forces have confirmed they are assessing the reports, though neither named a specific party or candidate.
This potential investigation adds to the scrutiny on Farage's successful campaign in Clacton, where he was elected as an MP for the first time. The outcome of the Electoral Commission's assessment could have significant implications for both Farage and his party's compliance record.
