London – The Metropolitan Police are investigating approximately £500,000 in donations made to the political party Reform UK, according to a report by The Times newspaper. The inquiry centers on Fiona Cottrell, the mother of George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster who previously funded Nigel Farage's social media staff and security.
Investigators have reportedly been examining potential offenses related to the "evasion of restrictions on donations" for over a year. The Times alleges this involves concealing or misrepresenting the origins of funds from an "impermissible" donor or providing false information about a donation's amount or source. The investigation is understood to focus on two £250,000 payments made by Fiona Cottrell to Reform UK prior to the 2024 general election, with the first appearing in the party's accounts on May 9, 2024, and the second on May 29, 2024.
Nigel Farage was elected to the House of Commons for the first time in that election. The Sunday Times previously reported that George Cottrell had covered costs for Farage's staff and security before the election, benefits that were not declared once Farage became a Member of Parliament. George Cottrell had previously pleaded guilty to fraud in the United States and served eight months in prison before his release in 2017.
Lawyers for George Cottrell have stated he "categorically disputes allegations and assertions made by the Sunday Times" regarding his financial support for Farage. Farage has denied any wrongdoing.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that an investigation was initiated in February 2025 following a referral from the Electoral Commission. The probe, conducted by detectives from the Met's Special Enquiry Team, is examining alleged offenses under Section 61 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000. The police have sought early investigative advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, and two individuals have been interviewed under caution. No arrests have been made.
The Electoral Commission stated that as the alleged offense falls outside their investigative scope, it is a matter for the police, and they have no further comment. The BBC has attempted to contact Fiona Cottrell for a statement.