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Fraudster Cottrell’s £1 m Donation Sparks Farage Staff Probe

7/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster, was named as Nigel Farage’s chief of staff despite party denials.
Cottrell allegedly gave money and arranged Land Rovers that took MPs to Westminster on 9 July.
Bankers reported a loan to leader Richard Tice and a £1 million donation from Cottrell’s mother to Britain Means Business.
Labour chair Anna Turley urged a probe of the undeclared donations, noting Farage also faces a £5 million standards inquiry.

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Story summary

George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster, was named as Nigel Farage’s chief of staff despite party denials.
Cottrell allegedly gave money and arranged Land Rovers that took MPs to Westminster on 9 July.
Bankers reported a loan to leader Richard Tice and a £1 million donation from Cottrell’s mother to Britain Means Business.
Labour chair Anna Turley urged a probe of the undeclared donations, noting Farage also faces a £5 million standards inquiry.