Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has resigned as an MP to trigger a by-election in his Clacton constituency, citing growing scrutiny over his personal finances.

The move, described as a 'desperate political stunt' by Labour's Keir Starmer, follows allegations of unregistered donations and ties to a convicted criminal.Farage claims he is a victim of media conspiracies and asserts that the by-election will allow voters to judge his actions directly.However, critics argue the decision risks wasting taxpayers' money and could backfire if legal investigations confirm wrongdoing.

The Conservatives and Restore UK have refused to field candidates against Farage, with Kemi Badenoch accusing him of 'cracking under pressure'.Meanwhile, Farage's admission of discussing quitting politics altogether highlights the political gamble involved.

The by-election, expected to cost over £300,000, has drawn mixed reactions, with some politicians dismissing it as a distraction from serious allegations about his financial backers.