UK political donors could face tougher residency rules

The UK government is planning to tighten residency rules for political donors to ensure that individuals contributing significant amounts of money genuinely reside in the country. This announcement follows a major political row over a total of £72 million donated to Reform UK by two British crypto-billionaires who had both recently lived abroad.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, stated that the donations from Ben Delo and Christopher Harborne were one hundred percent compliant with current laws, though he could not guarantee they would remain permissible under proposed regulatory changes. The government intends to modify laws governing donations from British voters living overseas, including the introduction of a backdated £100,000 cap starting from March 25.

Furthermore, authorities want to introduce a minimum residency period of at least 12 months, during which the cap would still apply to individuals returning to live in the UK. It remains unclear precisely when Mr. Delo and Mr. Harborne returned to the country. Under existing regulations, foreign donations are strictly illegal in the UK, yet British voters residing abroad are currently permitted to contribute unlimited sums to political parties.

"We are considering how we will strengthen the residency requirements, including ensuring that the length of time spent in the UK aligns with broader government policy."

Baroness Taylor of Stevenage

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Members of Parliament have backed the government's proposals by approving amendments to the Representation of the People Bill, which is currently undergoing detailed scrutiny in the House of Lords. Speaking during the debate, Communities Minister Baroness Taylor of Stevenage explained that the measures will be paired with a robust framework ensuring that contributors exceeding the £100,000 annual cap must demonstrate a genuine and ongoing connection to the UK.