Key facts
- A record 34 candidates are contesting the Clacton by-election.
- The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
- Farage resigned on July 7 amid scrutiny over an undeclared gift.
- None of the major UK political parties are fielding candidates.
- The election is scheduled for August 13.
A record 34 candidates are set to contest the Clacton by-election, triggered by the resignation of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Farage stepped down as MP on July 7 amid scrutiny over an undeclared gift and is now seeking re-election. The candidate list, which includes 20 independents and several novelty candidates like Count Binface and members of the Monster Raving Loony Party, is believed to be the highest number of candidates in any UK parliamentary election. Major parties, including Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, and the Green Party, have declined to field candidates, with some accusing Farage of a stunt. The by-election is scheduled for August 13, and the cost to taxpayers is estimated to be over £275,000, though Reform UK has offered to cover the expenses.