EHRC Probes Reform UK Over Racist and Sexist Remarks in Documentary 2026

The EHRC has raised concerns with Reform UK after an undercover documentary exposed racist and misogynistic remarks by party councillors and candidates. The equalities watchdog's letter asks what action the party is taking to comply with the Equality Act.

The investigation follows ITV's Undercover: A Year in Reform, broadcast in October, which showed several party figures making extreme comments. The revelations have put pressure on Nigel Farage's party over its vetting procedures and internal culture.

What the EHRC Letter Means for Reform UK

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) confirmed it had written to Reform UK to request information about compliance with the Equality Act. The letter asks what steps the party is taking to address the issues raised in the documentary.

The EHRC is the official equalities watchdog in Britain, with the power to investigate and take legal action against organizations that breach equality law. Its involvement signals that the matter is being taken seriously at a regulatory level.

Reform UK now faces questions about whether its vetting procedures are sufficient and whether it has adequate policies in place to prevent discrimination. The party's response to the EHRC will be closely scrutinized.

Key Revelations from the ITV Documentary

The documentary, filmed over a year, included secretly recorded footage of Reform councillors and candidates making a series of offensive remarks. The comments ranged from racist and Islamophobic statements to misogynistic and violent fantasies.

• Alan Feeney, a Reform councillor and deputy mayor of Solihull, called Asian homeowners "parasites" and made Islamophobic remarks, stating that "no more than 1% of [the] British population can be non-white".
• A Bromley councillor called for King Charles to be killed.
• Another councillor made disturbing sexual and misogynistic comments about female colleagues.
• Reform MP Sarah Pochin was shown complaining that the party was "chauvinistic" and riven with "alpha male shit".

These revelations have sparked outrage and raised questions about the party's internal culture and its ability to vet candidates effectively.

Reform UK's Response and Vetting Procedures

Nigel Farage has said that the party's vetting procedures have improved greatly. However, the documentary suggests that problems persist within the party's ranks.

Reform UK has not yet commented publicly on the EHRC's letter. The party may now face pressure to demonstrate that it is taking concrete steps to address the issues raised.

The EHRC's request for information is a preliminary step. Depending on Reform's response, the watchdog could decide to launch a formal investigation or take other action.

Implications for the Party and British Politics

The EHRC's intervention comes at a sensitive time for Reform UK, which has been gaining in the polls. The party's opponents may seize on the controversy to argue that it is not fit for public office.

The revelations also raise questions about the wider issue of racism and sexism in British politics. Other parties have faced similar scandals, but the EHRC's involvement makes this case particularly significant.

The outcome of the EHRC's inquiries could have implications for how political parties are held accountable for the behavior of their members and candidates.

What to Watch Next

Reform UK is expected to respond to the EHRC's letter in due course. The watchdog may then decide whether to escalate the matter.

The party's internal review of vetting procedures will also be closely watched. Farage has promised improvements, but the documentary suggests that more may need to be done.

Finally, the reaction of other political parties and the public will be important. The controversy could damage Reform's reputation, particularly among voters who are concerned about equality and inclusion. The background to this story is set out in Business: latest articles.

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