Reform UK faces criticism after undercover racist remarks
Reform UK faces intense criticism after ITV News broadcasts a year-long undercover investigation capturing candidates using racist language.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- ITV News broadcasts a year-long undercover investigation into Reform UK.
- Undercover footage captures candidates and councillors using racist and sexist remarks.
- A Solihull deputy mayor was recorded referring to Asian homeowners as "parasites".
- Reform UK states that all individuals in the footage are under investigation and suspended.
Reform UK is facing severe criticism after ITV News broadcast an undercover documentary filmed over a full year, exposing councillors and election candidates using racist, violent, and sexist language during their campaigns and duties.
The documentary, titled "Undercover: A Year in Reform," captured incidents across England and Wales leading up to the local elections in May, alongside four by-election campaigns. Among those filmed was Alan Feeney, a Reform councillor and deputy mayor of Solihull in the West Midlands who defected from the Conservative Party in 2025, and was recorded calling Asian homeowners "parasites."
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
A spokesperson for Reform UK responded by stating that there is absolutely no room for racism within the party, and that investigations have been launched immediately regarding anyone who behaved inappropriately, with some individuals already suspended. The spokesperson acknowledged that while vetting procedures have been improved, certain individuals whose values do not align with the party occasionally manage to slip through the vetting process.
"This is chilling. I feel for anyone watching this tonight who is frightened to see such racism and hatred festering in their community."
Sir Ed Davey, Liberal Democrat Leader
According to reports, ITV deployed undercover reporters to work alongside eight figures within Reform UK. The revelations have generated intense political fallout, while party leader Nigel Farage has repeatedly stated his intention to purge those he describes as "bad apples" from the organization.
This undercover exposure presents a major challenge for Reform UK as it attempts to present itself as a serious contender for government. The controversy has provided ample ammunition for political rivals, with the Conservatives arguing it proves Nigel Farage's failure to vet candidates effectively, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny faced by populist right-wing parties in the UK over internal discipline and screening standards.
Political opponents were swift to condemn the findings. The Conservative Party stated that Nigel Farage's promise to ready Reform for government has failed due to these individuals, while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey described the footage as chilling and expressed deep concern for communities exposed to such hatred.
Source: BBC Politics
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