Britain’s equality watchdog has written to Reform UK seeking information about the party’s compliance with discrimination law after an undercover ITV documentary recorded councillors, candidates and activists making racist, sexual and violent remarks. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) confirmed on 2 November 2026 that it had contacted Nigel Farage’s party following complaints about material featured in Undercover: A Year in Reform. Reform UK denies breaching equality law.
Equality watchdog requests information
The EHRC said it had received complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, including concerns about racial and sexual remarks by councillors, prospective councillors and members. It has asked what steps Reform UK is taking to comply with the Act. The commission said it would assess the information before determining whether action is appropriate. It explicitly confirmed that no decision has been taken on enforcement action, including launching a formal investigation.
ITV documentary raises questions about party vetting
ITV’s undercover documentary included recorded remarks about ethnic minorities, Muslims, immigration and women from individuals associated with Reform UK. Some were elected councillors or candidates. Reform said investigations had begun following the disclosures, with suspensions in some cases, and acknowledged that individuals who do not share its values can sometimes pass its vetting procedures.
Reform UK denies breaching equality law
A Reform UK spokesperson said the party was confident it had complied with its Equality Act obligations and that racism had no place within the organisation. Nigel Farage defended the party’s vetting and employment procedures, arguing that vetting could not prevent every inappropriate statement by an individual. The regulator has not reached a finding about the party’s compliance.
Reform UK has challenged ITV’s methods
Separately, Reform UK reported ITV and journalists involved in the programme to police and alleged that undercover reporting methods may have broken the law. ITV rejected those allegations, defended its public-interest journalism and said it would cooperate with police if approached. Reform UK’s allegations about ITV are distinct from the EHRC’s assessment of complaints about the party.
What does the Equality Act require?
Political parties must comply with applicable Equality Act 2010 requirements, including protections against unlawful discrimination and harassment. The EHRC stressed that freedom of expression and the right to be free from discrimination both matter. Offensive remarks do not automatically establish an organisational breach of the law: any legal conclusion depends on the relevant facts and statutory duties.
What happens next?
The EHRC will consider the complaints and information supplied by Reform UK before deciding whether any further regulatory action is appropriate. No timetable or formal investigation has been announced. The confirmed development is the watchdog’s request for information, not a finding of unlawful conduct.