Police Investigation into Reform UK's Election Leaflet in Gorton and Denton

Reform UK is currently facing a police investigation regarding a leaflet distributed during the Gorton and Denton by-election campaign. The leaflet, authored by Patricia Clegg, a local pensioner and member of Reform UK, failed to include the legally required imprint identifying the party as the promoter. This omission has led to a referral to the Electoral Commission and Greater Manchester Police, which confirmed it would investigate the matter. The Electoral Commission emphasized that failing to include an imprint in candidate election material constitutes an offence.

Reform faces police investigation over ‘concerned neighbour’ byelection lettersReform blames printer as Farage’s party faces investigation into by-election leafletPolice investigating as Reform's printing firm apologises over resident's endorsement letter that failed to say it came from party

The Gorton and Denton by-election was triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, who stepped down for health reasons. The seat has historically been a stronghold for Labour, with Gwynne winning over 50% of the vote in the last general election. Reform UK's candidate, Matt Goodwin, is attempting to capitalize on Labour's declining support, with some polls indicating that Labour may now be in third place behind the Green Party.

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Reform UK has stated that the artwork for the leaflet was submitted with the correct imprint, which was approved prior to printing. However, Hardings Print Solutions, the printing firm responsible for producing the leaflet, acknowledged that an error occurred during the production process, resulting in the imprint's removal. A spokesperson for Hardings Print Solutions expressed regret for the oversight, stating, "We take our responsibilities in relation to election material very seriously and take full responsibility for this error occurring."

Police investigating as Reform's printing firm apologises over resident's endorsement letter that failed to say it came from party

Despite this, Labour's campaign political lead, Andrew Western MP, criticized Reform UK, asserting that campaigns are responsible for the materials they distribute. He stated, “Blaming a printer doesn’t remove that responsibility or excuse the failure to meet basic legal requirements. Reform should concentrate on getting the basics right.”

Reform blames printer as Farage’s party faces investigation into by-election leaflet

The incident has drawn criticism from various political opponents. A spokesperson for the Green Party accused Reform UK of "playing dirty" in the election campaign, highlighting the party's financial backing from wealthy donors. The Green Party candidate, Hannah Spencer, emphasized the need for integrity in campaigning, stating, “With Reform raking in millions from crypto billionaires and fossil fuel giants, you’d think they’d be able to afford to follow the law.”

Reform faces police investigation over ‘concerned neighbour’ byelection letters

As the investigation unfolds, the Gorton and Denton by-election is scheduled for February 26, 2026. The outcome of this election could significantly impact the political landscape, particularly for Labour, which has held the seat for over a century. Voters will have the opportunity to choose among eleven candidates, including representatives from Labour, the Green Party, and Reform UK.

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• “Campaigns are responsible for what they put through people’s doors. Blaming a printer doesn’t remove that responsibility or excuse the failure to meet basic legal requirements. Reform should concentrate on getting the basics right.” — Andrew Western MP, Labour

Reform faces police investigation over ‘concerned neighbour’ byelection letters

• “We take our responsibilities in relation to election material very seriously and take full responsibility for this error occurring.” — Hardings Print Solutions Spokesperson

Police investigating as Reform's printing firm apologises over resident's endorsement letter that failed to say it came from party

• “Patricia Clegg writes in the letter: "For me, this by-election comes down to a simple choice: more broken promises for Keir Starmer or real change.” — Patricia Clegg, Reform UK Supporter

Police investigating as Reform's printing firm apologises over resident's endorsement letter that failed to say it came from party