Reform UK announced that two senior party figures have resigned from their positions while the organization conducts an internal investigation into allegations concerning party funding that emerged from an undercover television report.
Dan Jukes, a close aide to party leader Nigel Farage, and James Orr, who serves as the party's head of policy, have both stepped aside pending completion of the inquiry, according to a statement from Reform UK.
A spokesperson for the party stated:
"The party believes it is important that the investigation is allowed to proceed independently and without prejudice. No further comment will be made while the investigation is ongoing."
The controversy stems from an undercover investigation broadcast on Thursday evening by News. The covert footage captured Jukes discussing methods to circumvent electoral regulations in order to facilitate a foreign donation valued at £500,000 to the party.
What are the electoral law requirements?
Under UK electoral law, only individuals who are registered voters in the United Kingdom or companies incorporated in the UK are permitted to donate to political parties. In the scenario documented in the report, a son would qualify as an eligible donor under these rules, whereas his father would not.
Who conducted the investigation?
The undercover operation was performed by Verbatim Investigations, an organization established by journalists affiliated with the Centre for Climate Reporting. News confirmed they had authenticated the material provided to them before deciding to broadcast the report.
How has Reform UK responded?
Reform UK has rejected accusations of impropriety and characterized the investigation as
"a hoax perpetuated by foreign funded climate change activists."The party has not acknowledged any breach of electoral regulations in its public statements regarding the matter.
