Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK and Member of Parliament for Clacton, failed to register financial interests totaling £384,000 within the required 28-day timeframe on 17 separate occasions, according to a ruling by the parliamentary commissioner for standards.
Investigation Findings
Following an investigation, Daniel Greenberg determined the breaches were “inadvertent” and will not recommend any sanctions. Farage has apologized and pledged to adhere to the deadline in the future. The unreported interests include payments received from GB News, Google, X, and the Cameo app.
In his response to the commissioner, Farage expressed being “sincerely sorry” and stated there was “no malicious intent.” He also cited being “extremely let down by a very senior member of staff.”
Explanation for Delays
Farage explained to the commissioner on December 11, 2025, that the errors were due to his lack of computer literacy, stating, “I don’t do computers… so I rely on other people to do those things for me.” He also attributed the delays to “severe growing pains,” citing a dramatic increase in his political workload and a high volume of emails – approximately 1,000 per day.
Farage further suggested the current system for registering interests is “not designed for anybody in business,” and noted that his outside income allows him to claim “zero personal expenses.” He stated he earns income not as a result of being an MP, but “because I’m Nigel Farage and I’ve got other interests.”
The commissioner acknowledged the decision to close the case was “finely balanced,” but ultimately concluded the breaches were inadvertent and did not require referral to the Committee on Standards.
Political Reactions
A Labour Party spokesperson criticized Farage, stating he “isn’t on the side of working people – he’s just lining his pockets when he should be standing up for his constituents.” Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said Farage is “spending far too much time jetting off to talk our country down in the US and cashing in from his GB News show.”
The largest single payment not initially registered was £91,200 from Direct Bullion, where Farage works as a brand ambassador.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did Nigel Farage fail to register?
Farage failed to register financial interests totaling £384,000 within the 28-day limit. These interests included payments from GB News, Google, X, and the Cameo app, as well as a £91,200 payment from Direct Bullion.
Was any action taken against Nigel Farage?
The parliamentary commissioner for standards ruled the breaches were “inadvertent” and will not be recommending any sanctions. Farage has apologized and promised to meet the deadline in the future.
How many times did Farage miss the registration deadline?
Farage missed the 28-day deadline 17 times, with delays ranging from four to 120 days.
Given the commissioner’s decision, what implications might this have for public trust in MPs and the transparency of their financial dealings?
