Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice has publicly claimed that he has been treated “worse than a paedophile, a rapist or a murderer” by the BBC and the Metropolitan Police. The remarks were made during a Times Radio interview on Thursday, August 6, following reports of an ongoing investigation into the party’s campaign finances.
The Metropolitan Police are currently examining donations made to Reform UK by a company under Mr. Tice’s control. According to reports from The Times, a fundraising vehicle known as Britain Means Business provided the party with two separate donations of £250,000 during the lead-up to the 2024 general election. Mr. Tice has previously clarified that the funds originated from Reform donor Fiona Cottrell, who reportedly contributed £1 million to the fundraising vehicle in June 2024, half of which was subsequently transferred to the party.
Mr. Tice stated during the interview that he first learned of the police interest in these financial transactions through a BBC report. He characterized the institutional scrutiny as disproportionate, comparing his experience to the treatment of violent criminals. In response, a spokesperson for Reform UK maintained that the party adheres strictly to Electoral Commission guidelines, as established by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, and emphasized that they conduct rigorous vetting of all incoming donations.
The Metropolitan Police and the BBC have been approached for comment regarding the claims made by the deputy leader. As of the time of reporting, the investigation remains active, focusing on whether the financial structures used to fund the party align with regulatory requirements regarding political transparency and donor disclosure.