FARAGE URGED TO DECLARE DETAILS OF SECRET LEADERSHIP DEAL

Nigel Farage has been told to clarify reports that he negotiated a secret agreement to return as Reform UK leader in March and April 2024, months before the general election. According to reporting, the deal with then-party chief Richard Tice included provisions for Reform to repay or write off more than £1 million in outstanding loans from Tice's company once Farage became leader. The reports cast doubt on Farage's previous statement that he was not involved in politics between 2021 and June 2024, when he announced his return to frontline politics.

Farage received a £5 million gift from crypto-billionaire Christopher Harborne in April 2024, according to one account. Farage has argued the gift was unconnected to his political activity and stated he worked as a broadcaster and financial markets influencer during his supposed absence from politics. A Reform source told the Press Association that Farage had examined the party's liabilities and loans before deciding whether to return, reversing his initial refusal to do so. Newly elected MPs must register financial interests and gifts received in the 12 months before their election.

A parliamentary investigation into the £5 million gift has been paused since Farage stood down as Clacton MP to trigger a by-election in which he is standing. The investigation would resume if he is re-elected. Farage faces additional scrutiny over alleged support from convicted fraudster George Cottrell. Labour Party chairwoman Bridget Phillipson called on Farage to provide clarity on the matter.