Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has defended his party’s candidate-vetting procedures after an undercover ITV investigation recorded councillors and candidates making racist, sexist and violent remarks. Speaking during a visit to Chelmsford, Essex, on Thursday 15 October, Farage argued that parties cannot predict what individuals might say after being selected.
The comments represent Farage’s public response to footage released by ITV on 14 October, rather than a new finding from the investigation. ITV said its undercover reporting captured remarks by elected councillors and candidates across England and Wales.
Farage defends vetting
Farage told reporters that Reform vets candidates extensively but that it is not possible to screen for future comments, particularly where people are drawn into conversations by undercover reporters. He suggested the investigation was motivated by establishment opposition to Reform UK. Those allegations about the investigation’s motives are Farage’s claims, not independently established findings.
Farage also pointed to one individual featured in the reporting who had previously served as a Conservative councillor. He said the party deals appropriately with members who say or do unacceptable things.
What ITV reported
ITV’s investigation included footage of individuals using racist language about Asian families and Black children, making offensive comments about Muslims and discussing violence. These statements were attributed by ITV to the individuals recorded; they should not be presented as Reform UK’s official policies.
Reform UK told ITV that it had begun investigating the conduct revealed by the footage, that some individuals had been suspended and that others had left the party. The party said it had improved its vetting procedures and that racism had no place in Reform UK. Any individual disciplinary outcome should be distinguished from the wider party’s position.
Political reaction
Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for Reform UK to take immediate and firm action over the remarks. The controversy comes as the party faces scrutiny over its candidate selection and internal standards.
The full ITV Exposure documentary was scheduled for broadcast on 18 October. The present report is based on material and responses made public by 15 October and does not assume any further, unaired findings.