Christopher Harborne, a Thailand-based crypto investor who has donated millions of pounds to Reform UK, has registered to vote in Hampshire, according to reports from The Times. This registration comes as the UK government considers new rules that could cap annual political donations from Britons living abroad at £100,000.
Why did Harborne register to vote in the UK?
The Times reported that Harborne’s decision to register to vote could be a way for him to continue providing large sums to Reform UK. A spokesperson for the billionaire told the paper that he had decided to become a “registered voter in the UK”.
In an interview in April, Harborne suggested the government should not be able to prevent him from donating as he chooses. He added, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Regarding the money he gave to Nigel Farage, Farage said: “It’s an unconditional gift. I can spend it on Ferraris if I want. That’d be entirely up to me,” adding: “I can do what I want with it. I can put it on the horses.”
Harborne has been based in Thailand for more than five years, where he uses the Thai name Chakrit Sakunkrit.
How would new donation rules affect overseas donors?
The proposed changes stem from a March report by Sir Philip Rycroft, a former senior civil servant. The report recommended that a cap of between £100,000 and £300,000 a year should apply to “British voters living abroad”.
While ministers have yet to decide on the final definition, Rycroft’s report suggested the cap should be based on whether an individual is “normally resident” in the UK, rather than just being registered to vote. Decisions regarding residency would be left to local council election officials.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed stated that the legislation could be applied retrospectively from March, subject to parliamentary approval, to protect UK democracy.
What is the status of Nigel Farage’s £5m gift?
Harborne gifted £5 million to Reform leader Nigel Farage shortly before the 2024 elections. Farage has stated the money was an unconditional gift and therefore did not need to be registered under rules requiring MPs to declare potential interests in the 12 months before an election.
Farage initially said the funds were for personal security costs and later described them as a reward for Brexit. He is currently facing a formal investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog.
If Harborne seeks to bypass the overseas donation cap by returning to live in the UK, he may become liable for UK tax on his earnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much has Christopher Harborne donated to Reform UK?
Harborne has donated £15m to Reform in the past 12 months.
What is the proposed cap for British citizens living abroad?
An independent report suggested an annual cap of between £100,000 and £300,000.
Is Nigel Farage under investigation?
Yes, Farage is facing a formal investigation by the parliamentary standards watchdog regarding the £5 million gift he received.
Should political donation limits be based on a person’s registration to vote or their actual place of residence?
