Bin-battling Reform leader Nigel Farage is facing fresh accusations regarding his ties to a convicted fraudster who reportedly refers to him as “daddy.”
Aristocrat George Cottrell, known as “Posh George,” allegedly financed office expenses, including software, since the 2024 general election using personal funds. These contributions were not disclosed to the Electoral Commission, as mandated by law, as per The Sunday Times.
Mr. Farage, already under scrutiny in one Parliamentary standards inquiry and potentially facing another, recently announced his resignation to contest a by-election in Clacton. Despite claiming victimization in what he describes as an establishment conspiracy, his main challenger is likely to be parody candidate Count Binface.
Political parties can incur fines for failing to report donations exceeding £500, including monetary contributions, goods, services, or discounts. Reform UK asserts that Mr. Cottrell, who was convicted of wire fraud in the US in 2017, serves as an unpaid volunteer.
Recent allegations arose following reports in The Times suggesting that Mr. Cottrell provided Mr. Farage with benefits such as security, drivers, staff, and accommodation. The Liberal Democrats have urged Parliamentary standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg to investigate these claims.
Mr. Farage’s legal team refutes reports of financial assistance from Mr. Cottrell. Mr. Greenberg is already probing a £5 million ‘gift’ from crypto tycoon Christopher Harborne to Mr. Farage before the general election.
Reform contends that the undisclosed cash was a personal gift, thus not requiring declaration. Regulations mandate the registration of donations and political gifts within the 12 months preceding an MP’s entry into Parliament.
Labour MP Phil Brickell has also called for an investigation into reports of Mr. Farage lobbying the Bank of England against a cryptocurrency proposal, potentially impacting Mr. Harborne. Mr. Farage and Reform deny any wrongdoing.
The Metropolitan Police is investigating two donations of £250,000 each from Mr. Cottrell’s mother, Fiona, in May 2024. Investigators are examining whether the origin of the funds was concealed and if they were received from impermissible sources, including non-UK voters and overseas companies, which political parties are prohibited from accepting funds.
A Labour spokesperson expressed concern over Reform’s financial practices, emphasizing the need for accountability and compliance with the law. The party’s response to these issues could influence public perception of their integrity and adherence to regulations.
Tony Mack, a former Reform candidate, disclosed that Mr. Cottrell affectionately referred to Mr. Farage as “daddy,” with Mr. Farage reciprocating by likening the younger man, aged 32, to a son.
Reform clarified that George Cottrell has never held an official role within the party and operates as an unpaid volunteer, similar to numerous party members. The party declined to comment on the latest claims when approached by the Sunday Times. Requests for input from Reform UK and Mr. Cottrell’s legal representatives are pending confirmation.