Reform UK Faces Renewed Scrutiny Over Candidate Vetting

Reform UK is once again under scrutiny regarding its candidate vetting processes, following an undercover investigation by ITV that revealed internal discussions about the suitability of potential candidates. A staff member was recorded stating the party's general philosophy was to determine if an individual was a "f***ing lunatic" and if they would "cause problems with the Press."

These revelations come just hours after party leader Nigel Farage asserted that Reform UK has a higher vetting standard than other parties. However, Farage acknowledged that while CVs and social media are reviewed, he cannot "predict what they're going to say after a drink, when they're being provoked or egged on to say something."

The ITV investigation also highlighted the case of a former candidate who claimed to have been rejected twice for his past online behavior and support for far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Despite being initially deemed "too far-Right," the candidate alleged he was later invited back to stand in an election, which he narrowly lost.

One Reform UK candidate said he was rejected twice after showing support for far-Right activist Tommy Robinson (pictured) - but was later invited back to stand in an election he nearly won

The vetting officer involved in the undercover questioning acknowledged that "s*** happens, nothing's perfect," and mentioned having to reject a "convicted rapist" recently.

Further embarrassment for the party came from its first female Member of Parliament, Sarah Pochin, who was recorded complaining about the male members of the party. She expressed relief at a woman joining the press office, stating, "They are so fing chauvinistic. They just exclude you if you're a woman. It's really tough being a girl with all of this alpha male s going on."

These new allegations follow earlier reports where three councillors reportedly left Reform UK due to instances of racist, sexist, and violent language. The full documentary is scheduled to be aired on Sunday.