Reform UK has taken down negative advertisements featuring an illustration of Andy Burnham following legal threats from the artist. Stanley Chow’s lawyers accused Nigel Farage’s party of copyright violation and demanded a public apology for altering the artwork without permission.

The controversial images, believed to be computer-generated, depicted individuals in a boat holding “Vote Andy” signs with Chow’s portrait of the Makerfield by-election candidate and Labour leadership contender. Recent polls show Burnham leading by 10%, especially after Reform’s candidate faced criticism for not apologizing for disparaging comments about women during a turbulent Question Time.

Brabners, the legal representatives, argued that Chow was entitled to an injunction, compensation, and a public apology for the unauthorized use of his work. The claim letter sent to Reform’s headquarters indicated that Chow sought a minimum of £5,000 in damages and insisted on a public acknowledgment of his rights and the alleged infringement on the party’s social media platforms and website.

Chow, a Manchester-born artist, denounced Reform UK’s post, stating that it distorts the intended message of his artwork. He emphasized that his portrait, symbolizing positivity about Manchester and Burnham’s vision for the city, was misused to promote agendas he opposes, including anti-immigration sentiments.

In response, a spokesperson for Reform UK contended that their use of the material constituted fair use and dismissed the legal action as politically motivated. Despite denying liability, the party removed the posts in good faith to address the issue.

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