Nigel Farage has defended his friendship with George Cottrell amid growing controversy over the convicted fraudster’s financial involvement and ties to Reform UK. Speaking during the Clacton by-election campaign, the Reform UK leader dismissed the criticism surrounding Cottrell, who is sometimes referred to as “Posh George,” describing him as a “trusted” friend and ally.

Farage told an interviewer that he had no plans to distance himself from Cottrell, stating that he does not abandon close associates unless they betray him. He characterized Cottrell as a “Tatler figure” and a “colourful guy,” downplaying the media emphasis on his background.

The dispute centers around allegations that Farage failed to properly declare a £5 million donation from Chris Harborne, a billionaire based in Thailand, as well as various gifts and payments from Cottrell in the year prior to Farage’s election to Parliament. Cottrell, known for his involvement in cryptocurrency and crypto-gambling ventures, reportedly provided Farage with security services, staff, drivers, and accommodation valued at approximately £50,000. Additionally, Farage is said to have used a five-storey Georgian townhouse near Buckingham Palace that Cottrell rented.

At the time, rules required newly elected MPs to register any gifts exceeding £300 received during the previous 12 months, except those not reasonably thought to be connected to their political activities. Farage made a single disclosure related to Cottrell’s assistance after his 2024 election, reporting £9,000 for travel and accommodation tied to an event in Belgium.

Two parliamentary inquiries, led by standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg, were launched concerning these donations and gifts. Farage stepped down from his Clacton seat on July 7, triggering the current by-election. He maintains that he did not breach any regulations and has framed the contest as a battle between “the people versus the establishment.”

Mainstream political parties have declined to field candidates in the August 13 by-election, leaving Farage to face challenges primarily from novelty contenders, including Count Binface. If re-elected, the ongoing parliamentary investigations into the financial conduct surrounding Farage and Reform UK are expected to continue.