A recent investigation by a British newspaper has uncovered that candidates associated with the Reform party were listed in a leaked document from the British National Party. Despite Nigel Farage’s strong criticism of the BNP’s discriminatory practices and his assertion that former BNP members are not welcome in his party, the revelation that three Reform election candidates were linked to the BNP during Nick Griffin’s leadership has raised concerns about Reform’s vetting procedures.

Upon being contacted by the newspaper, Reform stated that these candidates were expelled for not disclosing their past affiliations with a proscribed organization. Among the individuals identified were a technology professional boasting of leading international teams and a roofing company owner who was pictured dressed as a sheikh holding monopoly money.

This development is another setback for Reform, especially after reports surfaced last year indicating a relaxation in their vetting process. A collaborative investigation with the anti-fascist group Hope Not Hate revealed the presence of these candidates on a leaked BNP membership list from 2008.

Hope Not Hate’s research director, Joe Mulhall, commented on the situation, highlighting Reform’s struggle with extremism despite their public stance against such ideologies. The exposure of these individuals has raised questions about Reform’s commitment to addressing racism and extremism within its ranks.

The investigation also uncovered instances where former BNP supporters managed to become associated with Farage’s party, contradicting his past statements about excluding BNP activists. One such individual identified was George Parnell, a technology sector worker running for public office, who initially admitted to exploring BNP membership but later denied any support for the party.

Similarly, John Black, a candidate in Blackburn, Lancashire, for Reform, denied ever being a BNP member when questioned about his inclusion in the leaked list. David Prior, standing in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, expressed regret over his past association with the BNP, emphasizing his commitment to local businesses.

In response to the revelations, Reform UK confirmed the expulsion of Parnell, Prior, and Black for failing to disclose their previous ties to a proscribed organization. These incidents have raised concerns about the effectiveness of Reform’s vetting process and the potential infiltration of extremist elements into the party.

As Farage continues to distance himself from the BNP’s legacy and reaffirm his party’s stance against racism, the exposure of former BNP links within Reform raises questions about the party’s efforts to uphold its values and principles.