Nigel Farage, leader of the anti-immigration Reform UK party, is facing mounting scrutiny over allegations of accepting undeclared financial gifts from a convicted fraudster.The controversy has led to the suspension of his regular press conferences and media appearances.

Farage, a prominent ally of former US President Donald Trump, denies any wrongdoing but the investigation into his finances has raised questions about his political future.The probe involves a £5 million donation from a Thai-based cryptocurrency billionaire, George Cottrell, who was jailed in the US for fraud.Cottrell, who remains close to Farage, is alleged to have provided funding for staffing and security before Farage became a Member of Parliament.

UK rules require newly elected lawmakers to declare gifts over £300 received in the previous 12 months, except if they could not reasonably be linked to political activities.Farage claims the donations were personal gifts used for security and staff, but the parliamentary standards watchdog is investigating.If found to have breached rules, Farage could face suspension, potentially triggering a special election in his constituency.

The controversy has sparked calls for reform of UK political finance laws, with the government planning to cap overseas donations and ban cryptocurrency donations.