The Guardian reported that Reform UK spent more than £150,000 on security for its leader, Nigel Farage, after public protection was reduced in 2025, amid questions over a separate £5 million gift.
Unnamed sources told the newspaper the reported outlay covered a security team and two cars. The Guardian also said Farage declined a public offer that included a bodyguard, driver and car. Its sources described security-related work at properties used by Farage’s family and said the party-funded team had accompanied him on personal activities.
Reform UK did not answer the paper’s questions about whether the gift had paid for any security costs or why Farage turned down the public package. A party spokesperson told The Guardian that the party does not discuss security matters.
Farage received the £5 million gift from Christopher Harborne, a crypto billionaire, The Guardian reported. The newspaper previously said Farage described the money as support for his long-term security. During a Nov. 8 BBC interview, Farage argued that he should be able to pay for security at whatever level was needed for the rest of his life, ITV News reported.
The Guardian also characterized the party and the gift as funding separate security needs: it said Reform’s spending related to Farage’s political exposure, while the donation was intended for longer-term personal protection. Reform did not confirm that account.
Parliament’s public list shows an inquiry opened May 13, 2026, under Rule 5, “Failure to register an interest.” The listing does not identify the interest under review. The Guardian and ITV News have connected the inquiry to Harborne’s gift, while Parliament cautions that an open inquiry is not evidence of a breach. The case remains open, with no decision date listed.
EconoTimes previously covered a former Reform aide’s comments about Farage’s explanation of the gift.
