Nigel Farage’s personal security is being paid from Reform UK’s central funds despite his claim that those costs would be covered by an undisclosed £5m gift from a billionaire, sources told The Guardian.

The party has covered a team and two cars since taxpayer-funded security was reduced after a 2025 review. Costs have topped £150,000 in the past year, sources said.

After the Guardian revealed the gift, crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne said it was “to support Nigel’s security … for the rest of his life.” Farage initially said the same, suggesting the Home Office offered no support.

In fact he was offered a bodyguard, driver and car — similar to Kemi Badenoch — but refused. Since then the bill has fallen on the party, causing internal unease.

Reform UK declined to comment on security and would not say whether Farage has spent any of the £5m on protection. The party distinguishes political-activity security (party-paid) from longer-term personal needs (the gift’s intended use).

Labour and Conservatives demanded clarity. Costs charged to the party reportedly include security changes at properties, including family ones, and the team has been used for personal activities, sources said.

Farage’s account of the gift has shifted — from Ferraris and a “Brexit reward” to lifelong security — amid later huge donations from Harborne and Ben Delo.

Nigel Farage’s security paid for by Reform UK despite claim over £5m gift — The Guardian

Image: Wikimedia Commons — Nigel Farage official portrait (CC BY 3.0).

Sources consulted: Nigel Farage’s security paid for by Reform UK despite claim over £5m gift — The Guardian.