Met Police Investigate Reform UK Payments After Guardian... 2026

The Metropolitan police investigation into Reform UK payments first revealed by the Guardian has sent shockwaves through British politics. Scotland Yard is scrutinizing two £250,000 donations made to the party via Britain Means Business, a company controlled by deputy leader Richard Tice, just weeks before the 2024 general election.

Background of the Investigation

The Guardian reported earlier this month that Fiona Cottrell transferred £1 million to Britain Means Business shortly before the donations were made. About half of those funds were then passed to Reform UK. Fiona Cottrell’s son, George, is a convicted fraudster with close links to Reform leader Nigel Farage. Both Fiona and George Cottrell have been interviewed under criminal caution as part of the police inquiry.

Key Donations Under Scrutiny

Response from Richard Tice

Tice, now a newly elected MP, has dismissed the allegations as a “politically motivated smear campaign.” In response to a BBC query, he stated: “This is the first I have heard of it – if true why are the Met police briefing the BBC before contacting interested parties? Is the Met leadership now engaged in the widespread politically motivated smear campaign against Reform and its leaders?”

Suspicious Activity Report

The Guardian revealed that the transfer from Fiona Cottrell to Britain Means Business was reported to the National Crime Agency via a suspicious activity report (SAR). These reports are not criminal charges but flag potential money laundering. Crucially, neither the NCA nor bankers have been able to trace the original source of the £1 million sent by Fiona Cottrell.

Key Takeaways

• The Metropolitan police are investigating two £250,000 payments to Reform UK via Britain Means Business.
• Fiona Cottrell made a £1 million transfer to Britain Means Business before the donations.
• Her son George Cottrell has a criminal fraud conviction and links to Nigel Farage.
• Richard Tice denies any wrongdoing and accuses the police of a smear campaign.
• The source of the original £1 million remains untraceable, raising further questions.

Implications for Reform UK

This investigation could undermine public trust in Reform UK’s funding transparency. As the party gains electoral momentum, questions about its financial backers may become a recurring issue. The involvement of the Metropolitan police adds legal weight to earlier media reports.

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