Proposed Residency Rules Could Affect Political Donations

Lawmakers are considering new residency requirements for individuals making political donations. Under the proposed rules, donors would need to establish continuous residency in the United Kingdom to qualify for the electoral register. Eligibility for the electoral register directly affects a person's ability to make political donations.

The proposed changes emerged after the Reform party received substantial donations from two British crypto-billionaires. These individuals had recently resided outside the UK. The Reform party reported receiving a total of £72 million from these two donors.

The government plans to introduce the new rules through an amendment to the Elections Act. This amendment would mandate that anyone registered to vote must demonstrate a genuine and ongoing connection to the UK. Officials aim to apply these standards to all individuals listed on the electoral register, thereby influencing donation regulations.

Electoral Commission data indicates that the Reform party secured the largest individual political donations in the first quarter of 2024. The party received over £60 million from one specific donor during this period.