Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has cautioned that any large donation from tech billionaire Elon Musk to Reform UK could be perceived as an attempt to “buy” British politics.
Speaking amid speculation that Musk might contribute up to $100 million (£78 million) to Nigel Farage’s party, Badenoch described such financial support as “counterproductive” and suggested it would challenge her party to match resources.
“If Elon Musk is giving a competitor party money, then that is a challenge for me to make sure that I raise the same,” Badenoch said on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. However, she dismissed the likelihood of the donation, adding, “I don’t believe that he’s going to give that money.”
Badenoch Criticizes Farage and Reform UK
The controversy follows a meeting between Musk and Farage at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club, where Reform UK claimed “the issue of money was discussed.” Farage also hinted that Musk endorsed the party and could soon provide financial backing.
Badenoch was skeptical, accusing Farage of exaggerating.
“All we’ve seen is Nigel Farage saying, ‘he’s going to give me money,’ and Mr. Farage says a whole load of things. I don’t say things unless they are true,” she said.
She also criticized Reform UK’s policy approach, calling it superficial.
“Reform is saying stuff because it hasn’t thought it all through,” Badenoch said. “What people are going to get with new leadership under me is thoughtful conservatism, not knee-jerk analysis.”
Concerns Over Foreign Influence
Badenoch emphasized the potential risks of foreign financial influence in British politics, highlighting the stark contrast between UK and US election funding rules.
“People in this country don’t necessarily like to see politics being bought. In the US, they spend billions on their campaigns. My election limit was about £15,000,” she explained.
The UK government has hinted at plans to introduce reforms that would block large foreign donations to political parties as part of a broader effort to safeguard the political system from undue influence.
Reform UK Gains Momentum Amid Tory Defections
Reform UK has gained traction with recent Conservative defections, including former MP Dame Andrea Jenkyns.
Musk’s speculated financial backing has raised fears of further Tory losses to Reform, which aims to professionalize its operations ahead of the next general election.
Badenoch remained steadfast, stating her focus on long-term, principled leadership.
“This is going to be a marathon, not a sprint,” she said, pledging to counter Reform’s appeal on issues like tax, migration, and net-zero policies.
Badenoch on Migration and Leadership Challenges
Addressing immigration, Badenoch expressed frustration with the high net migration levels overseen by previous Conservative governments, attributing them to an over-reliance on migrant labor.
She underscored her commitment to thoughtful and sustainable policy solutions.
“Aren’t you tired of people who tell you lies? Aren’t you tired of people who just tell you what you want to hear?” Badenoch asked, positioning herself as a leader dedicated to honest and pragmatic governance.
