Police Investigate £500,000 Donations to Reform UK Linked to Convicted Fraudster

The Metropolitan Police is investigating donations totaling at least £500,000 made to Reform UK by Fiona Cottrell, the mother of a convicted fraudster, as reported on July 10, 2026. The inquiry, which has been ongoing for over a year, focuses on allegations involving impermissible donors and misrepresented donation information.

Details of the Investigation

According to The Times, Fiona Cottrell is at the center of this investigation, which involves two donations of £250,000 each made by her to Reform UK before the 2024 general election. The first donation was recorded on May 9, 2024, and the second on May 29, 2024, shortly before the election.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that two individuals have been interviewed under caution but stated that no arrests have been made. The investigation is examining whether the donations were concealed or derived from impermissible sources. Reform UK officials have not been interviewed as part of this inquiry.

Background on Fiona Cottrell and Her Family

Fiona Cottrell's late husband, Mark Cottrell, passed away in 2023 and left an estate valued at £1.5 million. Fiona has described herself as a "retired stylist". Furthermore, her son, George Cottrell, has been a close associate of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, reportedly financing Farage's staff and security during the 2024 election. George Cottrell has a criminal background, having pleaded guilty to fraud in the United States.

George's financial support for Farage was not declared once Farage became an MP, raising further questions about transparency and compliance with electoral laws.

Political Implications and Reactions

The investigation into Fiona Cottrell's donations coincides with heightened scrutiny of Nigel Farage's finances, including an undeclared payment of £5 million from Christopher Harborne, a cryptocurrency billionaire and Reform donor. Farage claims this payment was an unconditional personal gift.

In response to the ongoing inquiries, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has stated he did not need to declare the support he received from George Cottrell, asserting it was unrelated to his political activities. Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform UK, has labeled the investigation a "politically motivated smear campaign".

The Electoral Commission referred the case to the police in February 2025, leading to the current investigation into alleged violations under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000.