Farage Hid Support From Convicted Crypto Fraudster, Report Says

Nigel Farage failed to disclose financial support from a convicted cryptocurrency fraudster ahead of his election as MP for Clacton, the Sunday Times reported.

George Cottrell, who served eight months in a U.S. prison for wire fraud tied to a money-laundering sting, allegedly covered expenses for Farage's private security, drivers, lodging, and support staff including social media and office management, the investigation found. Cottrell later operated Tether.bet, an offshore crypto gambling platform that accepted Bitcoin and USDT.

Farage did declare a £9,253 trip to Belgium and a £15,276 flight donation paid for by Cottrell. He did not disclose the broader financial backing.

UK parliamentary rules require newly elected MPs to declare any benefits exceeding £300 received in the year before their election if related to political activities. The regime aims to let the public see who finances politicians.