Reform UK conference tests Farage’s leadership amid scandals and falling support
Reform UK’s Birmingham conference is being held as the party confronts stalled momentum, reported internal tensions and allegations it was willing to accept illegal foreign donations.
Reform UK’s 2026 conference in Birmingham is unfolding as the party seeks to regain momentum after months of falling poll numbers, reported financial scandals and apparent divisions within its leadership.
The gathering was intended to provide a reset and clarify the party’s future direction. Instead, it has been overshadowed by a Channel 4 investigative documentary broadcast on the eve of the conference.
The documentary alleged that Reform UK was willing to accept illegal foreign donations. The party denies the claims. The available material provides no details of the alleged donations or any regulatory findings.
The Guardian’s Today in Focus podcast examines the conference and the pressures facing the party, including questions about its political direction and Nigel Farage’s position as leader.
The programme hears from Farage loyalists, critics and party members. Its exploration of whether Farage will remain leader reflects the uncertainty surrounding Reform UK, but does not establish that he is considering leaving or that a leadership change is imminent.
