Reform UK officials step down over donation allegations

Two officials from Reform UK have resigned and the party is conducting an inquiry into allegations that they violated political donation regulations by using an overseas company to fund three polls. The incident was reported by Channel 4 News, which alleged that Reform UK received funding from a US firm for the polls, costing £32,500.

Reform UK released a statement saying they had launched an investigation following the Channel 4 News broadcast, and both individuals involved have stepped down pending the investigation's outcome. The party emphasized the importance of allowing the investigation to proceed independently and without bias. Reform UK chairman Lee Anderson stated there was "no chance" of the officials returning to the party.

This development occurs as Reform UK holds its annual conference in Birmingham, where party leader Nigel Farage is expected to pledge to increase the frequency of UK parliament sessions to seven days a week. However, the allegations surrounding the party's alleged breach of political donation rules may overshadow Farage's speech.

Foreign companies are prohibited from funding political parties, and accepting such donations could potentially constitute a criminal offense. Labour Party chairwoman Bridget Phillipson urged Farage and his team to provide evidence that they had not violated the law and did not attempt to undermine democracy. Liberal Democrat Cabinet Office spokeswoman Lisa Smart expressed alarm over the allegations, questioning whether there has been a pattern of complacency towards foreign interference by those involved. Reform UK denied any wrongdoing and asserted it has a "robust vetting process for donors."