Reform UK received £72 million in combined donations from two cryptocurrency billionaires over two days, giving the party one of its largest funding boosts and highlighting the growing role of crypto wealth in British politics.
BitMEX co-founder Ben Delo donated £36 million, followed by an equal contribution from Tether investor Christopher Harborne. Delo announced his donation in The Telegraph, saying it was intended to create a “level playing field.” Harborne later matched the amount after Delo told him about the planned contribution.
Record Donations Face New Rules
The donations come as Parliament considers tighter rules on political funding. The proposed legislation would ban cryptocurrency donations and introduce a £100,000 annual limit on contributions.
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The rules are not yet in effect, as the bill still requires approval from the House of Lords. Until then, political parties can receive donations under existing rules, meaning the £72 million in contributions was made before the proposed restrictions take effect.
Reform Funding Draws Scrutiny
Reform has accepted cryptocurrency donations since May 2025, while police opened a criminal investigation into the party’s funding last week.
Delo had already given Reform £8 million this year, while Harborne has contributed millions more, including a £9 million donation. The latest payments add to scrutiny of the party’s finances as lawmakers consider tighter safeguards for political funding.
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Source: https://coinedition.com/reform-uk-lands-72m-crypto-windfall-from-two-billionaire/
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