Second crypto billionaire says donated record £36 million to Reform UK

A second crypto billionaire has made a record donation of £36 million (US$49 million) to Nigel Farage's hard-right Reform party, following a similar gift announced the previous day. These twin donations mark the largest gift in UK political history, coming despite several funding scandals surrounding the party. The donations follow police widening a criminal investigation into allegations that Reform accepted illegal donations.

Reform leader Farage has denied any wrongdoing, insisting the money is for his security. The party, which has been polling near the top, has seen its lead slip to the centre-left Labour in recent months due to multiple funding controversies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's recent rise to power is also seen as boosting Labour's prospects.

The donations were made by Christopher Harborne, who has already given £9 million to Reform last year, and Ben Delo, co-founder of the BitMEX cryptocurrency exchange, who pledged to give the party £1 million a month until the next general election.