Leading figures within Reform UK have repeatedly promoted a new pothole-fixing machine produced by construction company JCB, coinciding with a £200,000 donation from the manufacturer to the party.
High-Profile Promotions and Political Endorsements
Several prominent politicians, including Nigel Farage, Lee Anderson, Robert Jenrick, Zia Yusuf, and Richard Tice, have publicly praised the JCB PotHole Pro machine.
During a rally in Birmingham last year, Nigel Farage entered the stage on one of the repair vehicles. He suggested the machines would be utilized by Reform-run councils once the party gained control through local elections.
In March 2025, Farage described JCB as one of the most incredible companies in the world
. He claimed the machine could repair potholes at half the cost of other commercial operators, calling potholes the perfect symbol of broken Britain
.
Council Adoption and Cross-Party Use
At least two Reform-run councils, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, have adopted the PotHole Pro through their contractors. Officials state these adoptions followed proper procurement channels and incurred no additional costs.
The technology is not exclusive to Reform; it is used by councils led by the Conservatives, Labour, the SNP, and the Liberal Democrats. Labour’s roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, called the machine one of many great examples of using new technology to repair potholes faster.
However, specific endorsements remain concentrated among Reform figures. Robert Jenrick claimed in February that the machine could fix potholes six times faster, while Zia Yusuf previously criticized councils for using iron age technology
like pickaxes instead of the JCB equipment.
Allegations of Political Patronage
The Liberal Democrats have filed a complaint with the Electoral Commission, seeking an investigation into whether public contracts are being traded for political patronage.
The party questioned if Reform UK is providing a product promotion service or a favourable policy environment
for JCB, given the company’s status as a donor.
Reform UK has strongly denied these suggestions, asserting they would never trade public contracts for patronage. They noted that councils operate with contractors rather than JCB directly to make decisions based on effectiveness.
Local Government Defense
Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire county council, defended the use of the machine, stating there was absolutely no political influence
during the trial process.
Matthews noted that a previous trial in 2021, which lasted nine weeks, did not find the machine effective. However, a more recent eight-month trial proved a real benefit to the county’s 5,500-mile road network.
Looking ahead, the Electoral Commission may decide whether to launch a formal investigation into the party’s relationship with the donor. If such a probe occurs, it could lead to further scrutiny of how Reform-led councils manage procurement for road infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did JCB donate to Reform UK?
JCB gave a donation of £200,000 to Reform UK in November of last year.
Which Reform-led councils are using the PotHole Pro?
Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire are two Reform-led councils using the machine through their contractors.
Why did the Liberal Democrats complain to the Electoral Commission?
The party is calling for an investigation into whether public contracts may be being traded for political patronage or if Reform is providing a product promotion service for a donor.
Do you believe the use of efficient technology justifies the promotion of a political donor’s product?
