Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK and MP for Clacton, has been formally reported to the police over allegations of breaching electoral law during his 2024 campaign. The complaint centres on claims that several significant expenses were not declared, potentially pushing his campaign spending over the legal limit.
The Core Allegations: An Armoured Vehicle and Campaign Bar
The report, made by former Reform party member Councillor Richard Everett, alleges that Mr Farage's campaign failed to declare the cost of loaning an armoured Land Rover. The vehicle was used by the party leader to tour the Essex constituency on July 3, 2024, the day before the general election, with Mr Farage famously leaning out of its hatch.
Furthermore, it is claimed the campaign did not account for a Reform-themed bar set up in his campaign office. Councillor Everett, who now sits as an independent on Tendring District Council, also alleges that costs for leaflets, banners, and utility bills linked to campaign material featuring Mr Farage's name and policies were omitted from the official return submitted to authorities.
Spending Limits and Legal Implications
Official figures show the Clacton campaign declared spending of £20,299.80. This was just £400 below the statutory spending limit of £20,660 for the constituency. Mr Everett contends the true figure exceeded the limit due to the undeclared items.
He told the Telegraph: "I do not think that that is an accurate figure. In fact, I think the £20,660 was exceeded, and the reason why I think that is because of a number of items that were either missing on the return or wrong on the return."
If proven, both Mr Farage and his election agent, Peter Harris, could be found personally liable. Electoral spending offences typically have a one-year statute of limitations, but police can apply to extend this deadline under certain circumstances.
Denials and Broader Context
Reform UK has strongly denied any wrongdoing. A party spokesman stated: "These inaccurate claims come from a disgruntled former councillor. The party was disgusted by his inappropriate sexual behaviour with women, and he was expelled several months ago. The party denies breaking electoral law. We look forward to clearing our name."
The allegations emerge as Mr Farage himself is pursuing legal action against Labour's decision to postpone some local elections next year, including the Essex mayoral contest where Mr Harris was due to be Reform's candidate.
This is not the first time election spending has been scrutinised. In a notable past case, a Conservative Party official was convicted over a £60,000 overspend in the South Thanet seat in 2015, a constituency where Mr Farage, then leading UKIP, was the opposing candidate.
The Metropolitan Police has been approached for comment regarding the new report.
