Rattled Nigel Farage threatens Sky News journalist who asks about undeclared gifts from convicted criminal George Cottrell

This is the angriest and rattled many of us have seen Nigel Farage look. The Reform UK leader, visibly frustrated, threatened a Sky News journalist with ‘serious consequences’ after being asked whether he should’ve declared the gifts from convicted criminal George Cottrell.

Farage was asked the question at an airport following his return from Independence Day celebrations in the U.S, after it was revealed that the Reform UK leader failed to declare benefits, including staffing, security and housing, provided by long-time aide George Cottrell before he was elected as MP for Clacton in the 2024 general election.

Under parliamentary rules, new members must declare financial interests and “registrable benefits” received in the 12 months before their election, unless where the gift “could not be reasonably thought by others” to relate to their political activities.

Cottrell, also known as ‘posh George’, is a long-time aide of Farage, and was previously made Ukip’s head of fundraising at just 22 years of age.

In 2016 Cottrell was charged with 21 offences for his role in a “dark money” money laundering scheme. He pleaded guilty to wire fraud and spent time in prison in Arizona, though he is now seeking a pardon from the US president, Donald Trump.

Asked upon his return to the UK if it was a ‘mistake’ not to declare the gifts from Cottrell, Farage replied: “You tell your bosses  you harass my family anymore and I think there’ll be serious consequences.”

His response and clearly angry reaction prompted widespread criticism and condemnation, with Labour MP Richard Burgon posting on X: “Finally he’s getting the scrutiny he deserves. 

“And he really can’t handle it, can he?”

Another social media user added: “The cracks are beginning to show.. 

“Nigel Farage goes for this reporter asking questions about the “money”.

“Jeez- thought he was gonna lamp him one at one point….”