Watchdog Concludes Probe into Nigel Farage's Undisclosed £5 Million Gift

Nigel Farage faces a potentially imminent decision from a parliamentary watchdog over a £5 million donation from crypto-billionaire Christopher Harborne that he did not declare.

The Mail on Sunday has learned that an investigation by the standards watchdog into the undeclared gift has concluded, with sources suggesting it found that the Reform UK leader should have disclosed the funds.

If the conclusion is that Mr Farage breached Westminster rules, he could face a Commons suspension, which might trigger a by-election for his Clacton seat.

Mr Farage received the money in early 2024, before he became a Member of Parliament. He has maintained that the donation was for his personal security, stating he faced numerous threats and was under no obligation to declare funds intended to ensure his safety for life.

However, he was reported to the standards commissioner after it was pointed out that the MPs' code of conduct requires new MPs to register all current financial interests and any registrable benefits received in the 12 months prior to their election.

Earlier this year, Mr Farage resigned his Clacton seat and stood for re-election, stating he had done nothing wrong. He was re-elected with a significant majority after other major parties declined to field candidates against him.

Following his return to Parliament, the standards commissioner, Daniel Greenberg, reportedly resumed his inquiry.

Sources indicate that Mr Greenberg has completed his report and submitted his findings to the parliamentary standards committee, which is responsible for determining any sanctions. A suspension of ten days or more could, under recall provisions, lead to a second by-election for Mr Farage within months.

Some Westminster observers have suggested that the major parties might prefer not to give Mr Farage another opportunity to campaign in his constituency.

This development follows recent news regarding security concerns for Mr Farage. On Friday, Joshua Kerry was charged with preparing acts of terror, accused of plotting against Mr Farage. Kerry is also accused of the murder of former MP and Reform spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe in July.

Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice expressed shock at the terror plot allegations on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, noting that Ms Widdecombe's death had heightened awareness of security issues. He added that those close to Mr Farage sometimes felt he had not been believed or listened to regarding his security concerns.

Mr Greenberg has not commented on the report, and Reform UK has declined to comment on the matter.