Farage says Reform UK has 'taken no illegal money' after undercover report on donations
Reform UK is facing scrutiny after undercover footage captured two senior aides discussing potential ways to evade UK electoral donation laws. Nigel Farage has dismissed the comments as 'loose pub talk' and 'jack the laddery,' though both aides have stepped down pending an internal investigation.
Why it matters
The scandal threatens the credibility of Reform UK's efforts to position itself as a serious party of government and raises questions about the integrity of its fundraising practices.
Harry Farley and Joe Pike Political correspondents
Speak to people at the highest levels of Reform UK and they will admit the party has struggled in recent weeks.
Reform's polling numbers have dipped, while Labour's have risen.
One of their aims at this conference was to demonstrate Reform is a serious party of government. After a summer fighting the by-election in Clacton , which the other main parties boycotted, the party wanted to demonstrate they have a plan for government, focusing on immigration and the cost of living.
A press conference alongside Jordan Bardella, President of the National Rally which leads the polls in France, was part of that effort, and the intention was to project serious international co-operation with another insurgent party on the right.
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