Overseas voters who relocate to the UK would be prohibited from contributing more than £100,000 in political donations during their first year of arrival under new government proposals. Ministers introduced these planned restrictions alongside stricter assessments for company donations, aiming to prevent foreign funds from influencing British elections. While the government had previously announced a £100,000 annual limit for British citizens living abroad—backdated to March 25—the latest plan requires individuals to reside in the UK for a minimum period before exceeding that threshold.
This policy adjustment could significantly impact two major donors to Reform UK, who have previously provided millions to Nigel Farage’s party. Christopher Harborne, a Thailand-based billionaire, made headlines last year after donating £9 million to Reform, marking the largest single donation to a UK political party by a living individual. Records show he provided £12 million in 2025 and an additional £3 million in January. Reports indicate Harborne has registered to vote in the UK, and he previously stated that financial crackdowns would not deter his support. Similarly, crypto billionaire Ben Delo donated £4 million to Reform between January and March, and has expressed intentions to return to Britain from Hong Kong to continue funding the party. Both would be subject to the £100,000 cap for one year upon their return under these rules.
The proposed changes also target corporate contributions, which will now be evaluated based on post-tax profits from the previous five years rather than revenue alone, ensuring only legitimate UK-linked businesses can donate. Furthermore, candidates will be required to verify that any funding received prior to their candidacy originated from legitimate sources, with a mandate to declare any donations exceeding £2,230. These amendments are slated for the Representation of the People Bill, which returns to the House of Commons on July 14.
Government officials emphasized that these measures are intended to eliminate questionable funding and protect the integrity of the democratic process. These steps follow a review led by former civil servant Philip Rycroft, initiated due to concerns regarding foreign state interference. In March, the government also moved to ban cryptocurrency donations to political parties. Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, has criticized the move, accusing the Labour government of attempting to stifle legal funding for its primary political rival.
