Farage scrutinised over ally's support as he says he's 'done no wrongdoing'

Nigel Farage is facing renewed scrutiny over political and financial support he received from a convicted criminal associate, as Labour called on him to “level with the public” about the payments. Labour chairwoman Anna Turley said Farage must stop “blaming the media” and answer questions about support provided by his long-term associate George Cottrell, reported by The Sunday Times to have included funding for staffing, security, and the use of a London townhouse. Farage has insisted he committed “no wrongdoing” and claimed he is the target of an “establishment hit job.” Labour and the Liberal Democrats have urged the parliamentary standards commissioner—already investigating a separate £5 million gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne—to examine Cottrell’s role. The Sunday Times also said Cottrell recruited and paid three staff members for Farage’s social media before the 2024 general election and allowed use of a five-storey Georgian property near Buckingham Palace. Farage said he followed the rules and is considering legal action against the newspaper.