Keir Starmer humorously mentioned Reform UK in a Christmas jest, poking fun at the party’s former leader in Wales who was involved in a scandal of accepting Russian bribes. During his last PMQs of 2025, the Prime Minister extended Christmas wishes to MPs, parliamentary staff, and their families in Westminster before addressing Nigel Farage’s party.
In a lively moment in the Commons, Mr. Starmer quipped, “A little festive advice to those in Reform. If mysterious men from the East appear bearing gifts, this time report it to the police.” Laughter erupted among MPs, with Reform’s deputy leader Richard Tice enthusiastically reacting. Meanwhile, Mr. Farage, visibly displeased about his limited speaking time in PMQs, could be seen shaking his head from the public gallery.
This jest came following the sentencing of Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform in Wales, to 10-and-a-half years in prison for accepting bribes to promote pro-Russia narratives in the European Parliament. Gill, a former MEP for UKIP and the Brexit Party, received payments from a Ukrainian individual linked to Russian security services.
In response to Gill’s conviction, Keir Starmer initiated an investigation into foreign financial interference in British politics. Communities Secretary Steve Reed condemned the incident as a “stain on our democracy” and proposed an independent inquiry to address such issues.
Mr. Reed highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “An elected official accepting bribes to propagate falsehoods from a hostile state is unacceptable, especially given the tragic consequences. This behavior tarnishes our democracy, and the independent review aims to rectify this stain.”
While Mr. Farage had previously dismissed probing Russian influences within his party, he expressed support for a nationwide investigation, acknowledging the need for transparency and accountability in light of prevailing doubts and suspicions.
The move towards transparency and accountability in politics is crucial in upholding democratic values and ensuring the integrity of the political process.