Reform UK’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, has stated that billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk recognizes Reform as “the party of common sense,” following recent discussions regarding potential support for the party.
In an interview with Sky News, Tice expressed openness to receiving donations from Musk, highlighting the alignment between the tech mogul’s views and Reform UK’s policies.
“Frankly, both Nick [Candy, Reform UK treasurer] and Mr Musk recognise that we’re the party of common sense that can get the United Kingdom back on track,” Tice said.
Tice emphasized Reform UK’s commitment to tackling key national issues such as immigration, economic growth through smarter regulations, tax cuts, and eliminating wasteful public sector spending. He pointed to these priorities as central to the party’s agenda for revitalizing the UK.
“Whether it’s with regard to immigration, whether it’s with regard to growing the economy by having smart regulations, not daft regulations, by cutting taxes, and by cutting the vast amounts of wasteful, incompetent public sector spending.”
The comments follow recent revelations from Reform UK’s treasurer, Nick Candy, who confirmed he had spoken to Musk. Although Musk denied rumors of an £80 million donation, he has publicly expressed support for Reform UK on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Addressing potential restrictions on political donations, Tice responded to Labour’s pledge to “strengthen the rules around donations to political parties” as outlined in its manifesto. While sceptical about the feasibility of such measures, Tice made clear that Reform UK would gladly accept a donation from Musk, provided it adhered to legal regulations.
“Obviously, we’d be delighted. It would be a fantastic endorsement of our policies to save Britain and get Britain going again.”
Under current UK laws, donations exceeding £500 must come from UK-based individuals or registered businesses.
However, the potential for such support has drawn criticism. Conservative Party co-chair Lord Johnson cautioned that Reform UK leader Nigel Farage could risk becoming a “puppet of a foreign politician” if donations were accepted.
Reform UK, however, remains resolute in its belief that Musk’s endorsement underscores the party’s growing appeal and its mission to bring practical solutions to the forefront of British politics.