Nigel Farage has stated he will continue to support George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster known as 'Posh George', who is reportedly under investigation by police regarding donations made to the Reform UK party. Farage described Cottrell as a "trusted friend" and indicated he does not abandon his friends unless betrayed.
Cottrell, who has a U.S. conviction for fraud and no formal role within Reform UK, is alleged to have transferred over $2 million (£1.5 million) to his mother shortly before she made similar donations to the party. He is reported to have funded Farage's security during 2024 and currently resides in Montenegro, though his lawyers maintain he is a permissible donor in the UK.
The Metropolitan Police are investigating potential offenses under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, which targets attempts to obscure the origin of political donations. The Guardian reported on the alleged transfer of funds and subsequent donations. Labour has called for the Electoral Commission to investigate the claims.
Reform's Treasury spokesman, Robert Jenrick, expressed confidence that the party adhered to all electoral rules during the period the donations were made. Farage himself commented to The Spectator magazine, characterizing Cottrell as a "colourful guy" and "interesting bloke" but reiterating his loyalty.
This situation adds to existing scrutiny of Reform UK's finances. Farage is also under investigation by the parliamentary standards commissioner for failing to declare a £5 million gift from cryptocurrency billionaire Christopher Harborne. Farage stated this was a personal gift intended to cover his security costs.
Farage recently triggered a by-election in his Clacton constituency, framing it as a public verdict on his integrity. Major political parties have declined to field candidates against him in the August 13 contest, leaving him to face novelty candidates.
Separately, Farage revealed that he recently underwent abdominal surgery. He was observed to be moving stiffly when laying a wreath for Reform colleague Ann Widdecombe shortly after his operation.
