Nigel Farage has been found in violation of the MPs’ code of conduct on 17 occasions due to delays in disclosing financial interests. The leader of the Reform party, often referred to as “Nine Jobs Nigel,” has faced previous criticism for engaging in lucrative side projects beyond his annual MP salary of £93,904.
In a report issued recently, Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards Daniel Greenberg highlighted numerous instances where Farage failed to promptly register his interests as required. Following a public complaint regarding Farage’s delayed disclosures, Greenberg initiated a thorough review of Farage’s financial interests registration.
Greenberg stated that Farage’s failure to register interests within the stipulated 28-day timeframe set by the House led to seventeen breaches of the Code of Conduct. Despite the significant number of breaches, Greenberg determined that the delays were unintentional, citing administrative challenges. Farage admitted to the breaches and issued an apology.
The commissioner decided not to escalate the matter to the Committee on Standards, deeming it appropriate for rectification procedures. In correspondence, Farage attributed the delays to the complexity of his varied interests, including his roles as a TV presenter and successful private businessman, pre-dating his parliamentary tenure.
Farage acknowledged his breach of the code and expressed regret for the oversight, emphasizing that the delays did not stem from intentional deceit. In a subsequent letter, he shifted blame to a senior staff member, requesting a private meeting to address the issue confidentially.
During a meeting in December, Farage emphasized that his external earnings were not linked to his role as an MP but rather to his personal brand and additional ventures. An analysis of Farage’s Register of Interests revealed substantial income from travel sponsorships and other sources worldwide.
Recent disclosures indicated Farage earned over £1 million from secondary occupations since the general election, with significant earnings from roles such as a GB News presenter and a brand ambassador for Direct Bullion. Labour Party representatives criticized Farage for prioritizing personal profits over constituents’ interests and pledged to enhance regulations on MPs’ secondary employment to ensure public accountability and focus on core responsibilities.