Nigel Farage reportedly struck a secret deal with then-Reform leader Richard Tice and associate George Cottrell to stage his comeback long before the 2024 general election, according to a Sunday Times investigation. The agreement, presented to the party's treasurer in mid-May, came weeks before Farage publicly announced his return as leader on June 3, a claim that has been central to his defence against failing to declare a £5 million gift from billionaire Christopher Harborne.
Timeline of the pact
The Sunday Times reported that Farage, Tice, and Cottrell—a convicted fraudster—reached an agreement in March and April 2024. The deal involved the party paying back or writing off loans it had received from Tice's company. Farage had previously insisted he 'wasn't in politics' until June 3, when he dramatically rejoined the campaign, but the new evidence suggests he was actively planning his return months earlier.
MPs are required to declare any gifts, benefits, or hospitality related to political activity received up to 12 months before their election. Farage has repeatedly refused to clarify whether he spent the £5 million from Harborne, telling interviewers, 'I can spend it on Ferraris if I want.' He later claimed the money was for security and as a reward for his Brexit campaigning.
Ongoing investigation
The Parliamentary Standards Commissioner was investigating whether the Harborne money and separate support from Cottrell should have been declared, but the probe was halted when Farage resigned last month to run in a by-election. A Reform spokesman told Metro that the deal was simply Farage exploring what he would take on as leader, keeping 'his options open.' The spokesman added: 'Nigel simply found out the party liabilities and what loans would have to be repaid if he were to come back. He then decided he wouldn't before reversing that decision.'
However, the Guardian previously reported that Farage had told top Reform figures he would need 'a million a year' to compensate for lost earnings if he stood for Parliament, with terms lasting up to five years. Sources placed those discussions in March 2024, shortly before Harborne's £5 million transfer in April. Farage's office declined to comment on the Guardian article, stating he 'does not feel any answer he gives to you will be reflected accurately.'
By-election backfire
Farage is currently fighting the by-election in his Clacton constituency, which he triggered by resigning last month. He described the move as a 'people versus the establishment' election, but it backfired when major parties withdrew, calling it a 'stunt' and a 'vanity project.' Novelty candidate Count Binface is now his most prominent opponent.
The revelations raise further questions about Farage's financial arrangements and his transparency regarding political donations, as he seeks to return to Parliament.
