The letter box incident was early 2025? Interesting- doesn't fit well with Farage's Telegraph narrative (spin).
Braverman has weighed in today on Farage's behalf saying the donation didn't need to be declared because it was a "private" matter- There's a very big difference between what's your public duty, your public role and your private. And before he was an MP for many years, Nigel has carried a high risk to his personal safety. It is entirely reasonable for him to take steps. It's very regrettable, actually, that the state has not stepped in to protect him".
Farage, Braverman and Reform seem to take it for granted people are not aware of the rules. The Commons Code of Conduct and associated rules, clearly states "Both the possible motive of the giver and the use to which the gifts should be put to use considered. If there is any doubt, the benefit should be registered"
I still maintain that Farage fully knew Harborne's £1 million "gift" to Boris to run his office had resulted in a media furore and would also be the case should his £5million gift become public knowledge. He would surely know that doubt would be raised and the rules stay when in doubt declare. That was why he got lawyers involved. That is also most likely why he approached the Telegraph putting on his spin about the letter box failed incendiary device which Graphite clarifies was not until AFTER the £5 million was received.
Then coming to the Personal security malarkey. Farage seems to consider himself somehow "exceptional". In what way did he expect the state supposed to step in with regard to his security BEFORE he was in public office?
Once he became an MP, just a few weeks AFTER the £5 million was received he would have the same level of security afforded to all MPs- job done:
UK MPs receive a high, tiered level of security, which has been significantly strengthened since 2016 following the murders of Jo Cox and Sir David Arness. As of 2016, the state provides a combination of physical security at Westminster, dedicated police support in their constituencies and additional funding for high risk individuals. Every MP has a dedicated police officer to liaise with on security. In their constituency offices- they are entitled to security upgrades (e.g. panic buttons, enhanced locks, CCTV etc) are these are funded via expenses. MPs can also receive private security personnel at public facing events- e.g. MP surgeries. But then how often has Farage actually held surgeries in his Clacton constituency?
There is also Enhanced Security and Funding for MPs available to tackle increased threats. E.g MPs at a higher risk may be provided with executive protection/bodyguards. Funding available for residential security, e.g panic rooms, reinforced doors at their homes. "Surge" patrols, ie police patrols at constituency offices and homes are increased if a heightened threat is identified.
So state funded security protection is fully available for Farage ( I'm surprised Braverman is so remarkably ill informed), in public and at home for his work as an MP and leader of Reform UK. What more personal security does Farage want or need for "private matters" to the extent that would merit a £5 million donation from Harborne?
