Key facts
- Nigel Farage resigned as an MP on Tuesday.
- Farage announced he will contest the Clacton by-election.
- He cited recent revelations about his financial connections as the reason for his resignation.
- Farage described the upcoming election as a "people versus establishment" fight.
- He stated he has done nothing wrong and has not broken the law.
Nigel Farage resigned as a Member of Parliament on Tuesday, announcing his intention to compete in the subsequent Clacton by-election. He framed the contest as a "people versus establishment" battle, criticizing the British media and political establishment over recent revelations concerning his financial dealings.
Farage stated that he has done nothing wrong and has not broken the law, nor misused public money. He specifically addressed the recent reporting by the Sunday Times regarding George Cottrell, an aristocrat and convicted felon who allegedly paid for Farage's security and social media staff. Farage also mentioned a £5m gift received in early 2024 from billionaire Christopher Harborne, describing it as a "lottery win."
The Parliamentary Standards Commissioner is reportedly investigating Farage over the gift from Harborne. Farage suggested that the investigation into Cottrell, prompted by the Sunday Times, is the reason for a new inquiry against him. He also noted that if an MP resigns while under investigation and is subsequently re-elected, the inquiry can be reactivated.