The UK government is contemplating implementing a ban on cryptocurrency donations to political parties. This consideration emerges as Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, gains traction in the polls, prompting discussions about financial transparency and potential foreign involvement in political funding.
Reportedly, this measure is being evaluated in conjunction with an Elections Bill aimed at enhancing public trust in the political system, although the ban was absent from previous policy documents, as reflected in a report by Politico.
A government representative did not dismiss that the proposal is being analyzed, indicating that additional details will be outlined in the forthcoming bill.
Reform UK recently became the first political entity to start accepting crypto donations, highlighted by Farage’s announcement at the Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas this past May. He confirmed that the party would welcome Bitcoin (BTC) and other cryptocurrency contributions from qualifying contributors, and a dedicated portal for crypto donations has been established.
Reform UK Dominates Polls
This contemplation coincides with Reform UK’s recent rise in polling, currently holding about 29% in national averages—surpassing both the Labour and Conservative parties, which now trail at approximately 18% and 17%, respectively. This shift indicates a disintegration of the traditional two-party system.
According to Politico, calls for action against crypto donations come from Pat McFadden, Liam Byrne, and Phil Brickell, who assert that digital currencies complicate the tracking of fund origins, thus elevating the risk of illegal foreign funding being concealed within legitimate donations.
Ex-Reform UK Leader Imprisoned for Pro-Russian Statements
The debate around these donations has heightened following Nathan Gill’s imprisonment last month for receiving payment to make pro-Russian comments in the European Parliament, a situation Farage has publicly distanced from, completely rejecting any affiliation.
The Elections Bill is also anticipated to reinforce regulations against shell companies and unincorporated entities, necessitating political parties to conduct risk assessments for any donations posing a potential foreign interference threat.
Reform UK leads in polls.
Reform UK leads in polls. Source: Politico
