The Metropolitan Police are investigating donations from Britain Means Business, a company controlled by Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform UK, into the party.

The probe centres on potential violations of electoral laws under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, which prohibits improper financial contributions to political parties.Fiona Cottrell, Tice's wife, is alleged to have facilitated these donations, with her son George Cottrell potentially acting as an intermediary.

The investigation follows allegations that the company, originally founded as Leave Means Leave in 2017, used its influence to support Brexit-related campaigns while circumventing legal scrutiny.Reform UK's account was frozen by authorities amid suspicions of financial impropriety, prompting calls for transparency.Tice has denied wrongdoing, stating the donations were legally sourced and that the party remains committed to democratic principles.

The case highlights tensions between political fundraising practices and electoral regulations in the UK, with implications for accountability within political parties.