Britain's equalities watchdog, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has written to the Reform UK party seeking further information after members were filmed making racist remarks and jokes about incest.
The EHRC stated it has received complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, specifically citing concerns about racial and sexual remarks made by councillors, prospective councillors, and party members. This action follows an undercover investigation by ITV Exposure, which revealed instances of Reform UK members using racist language and making sexist jokes over a year-long period.
Footage from the investigation showed some Reform members making derogatory comments, including referring to black children as "animals" and suggesting the King was a secret Muslim who should be beheaded. Another reported incident involved a Reform member describing an area as having become "infested" with Asian families.
Responding to the allegations, Labour claimed that these examples of "extreme racism" could not be dismissed as isolated incidents and called for action from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The EHRC confirmed it would assess the complaints received.
A spokesperson for the EHRC stated that the commission has asked Reform UK for details on the steps the party is taking to comply with the Equality Act 2010. The watchdog reminded political parties of their obligation to avoid discrimination and harassment, including on the grounds of race, religion, belief, and sex, and urged them to review their policies and practices. The EHRC emphasized the importance of balancing freedom of expression with the right to be free from discrimination.
A Reform UK spokesman asserted that the party is confident in its compliance with the Equality Act and stated, "There is no room for racism in Reform UK."