A convicted fraudster reportedly transferred over two million dollars to his mother, who then made a donation to Reform UK in 2024. George Cottrell is said to have sent the substantial amount to his mother, Fiona Cottrell, a portion of which was later contributed to Nigel Farage’s political party.
Cottrell, who has a criminal record, provided financial support for Farage’s security and staffing prior to Farage’s election. The party’s financial activities have faced increased scrutiny recently, with the Metropolitan Police investigating potential circumvention of political funding regulations by donors.
Fiona Cottrell allegedly received a deposit of 1.4 million dollars and two subsequent payments exceeding 300,000 dollars each, attributing the funds to her son when questioned by bankers. These transactions occurred shortly before she donated to either Reform UK or the affiliated company Britain Means Business.
The Metropolitan Police is examining two donations totaling £500,000 from Britain Means Business, directed by Reform’s Deputy Leader Richard Tice in 2024. Electoral Commission records show two separate £250,000 donations from the company to Reform within two days.
According to Richard Tice, the money was transferred to his company by Ms. Cottrell, who reportedly gave £1 million to Britain Means Business in June 2024, with half of the sum then forwarded to Reform. Labour Party chairwoman Bridget Phillipson called on Reform UK leaders to transparently disclose their financial backers, expressing concern over the potential ties between Cottrell and Reform’s funding.
Robert Jenrick, Reform’s Treasury spokesperson, affirmed the party’s adherence to electoral rules when addressing the payments, stressing ongoing compliance with regulations. The Reform UK spokesman emphasized the party’s rigorous donation vetting process and commitment to Electoral Commission guidelines as stipulated in the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
