The Metropolitan Police announced on Wednesday that it is investigating alleged overseas donations to Reform UK, following a Channel 4 News undercover report.
Police broaden investigation after undercover sting
Scotland Yard said the inquiry will examine whether the party accepted money from foreign sources in breach of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act. The probe expands an earlier review that focused on domestic funding.
Channel 4’s investigative unit Verbatim aired footage of a reporter posing as a potential donor from abroad, offering to channel funds to Reform. The broadcast prompted the police to widen their remit, officials said.
"We will fully cooperate with the police," Reform UK said in a statement released after the announcement.
The party’s statement rejected any suggestion of wrongdoing and pledged to provide all requested documentation.
Political fallout and implications
The development arrives as the party, which holds seats in the House of Commons, has been courting voters dissatisfied with the main parties. A scandal of this magnitude could jeopardise its electoral ambitions.
Opposition leaders have called for a swift and transparent investigation. The Labour Party’s spokesperson for political finance warned that any breach of donation rules undermines public confidence in the democratic process.
Reform UK’s deputy leader, Alex Burghart, used a separate interview on GB News to criticise the government’s foreign policy, but did not address the donation allegations directly. His comments have drawn media attention, adding another layer to the party’s current challenges.
The Electoral Commission, which oversees party financing, said it is reviewing the case and may consider regulatory action. Previous inquiries into foreign funding have resulted in fines and, in rare cases, criminal prosecution.
Legal experts note that the UK’s strict limits on foreign contributions aim to prevent external influence over domestic politics. If the police find evidence of contraventions, Reform UK could face sanctions ranging from fines to loss of registration.
For now, the inquiry remains ongoing, with the Metropolitan Police confirming that officers are interviewing party officials and examining financial records.
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