The Electoral Commission says it is reviewing whether existing rules on political parties’ election spending are “fit for purpose,” in comments that have prompted criticism from Nigel Farage and Reform UK. The dispute has raised concerns among supporters about the stability of Reform’s reported £72 million funding.

Electoral Commission chief executive Vijay Rangarajan says the watchdog is examining the current framework governing how parties spend during election periods. He does not indicate the outcome of the review, but the remarks suggest potential changes could affect how parties account for and manage election-related expenditure.

The reports focus on Farage’s reaction and the possible implications for Reform’s finances, framing the review as a threat to its funding. Other outlets do not dispute that the review is taking place, but the available coverage centers on different stakes for parties depending on how they interpret the rules and the likelihood of any regulatory changes.