Nigel Farage has declined to commit to an investigation into the tax affairs of his second-in-command, Richard Tice, following revelations that companies under Tice’s ownership contributed over £1 million to Reform UK.
Farage, the head of Reform UK, defended Tice against allegations that four shell companies managed by him had not paid nearly £100,000 in taxes on profits earned between 2020 and 2022. Labour criticized Farage for deflecting responsibility and accused him of being “in complete denial.”
The controversy arose when it was disclosed that Richard Tice’s property investment firm, Tisun Investments Ltd, transferred £1,113,000 to Reform UK. When questioned about a potential investigation into Tice’s companies’ tax affairs and their ties to the party, Farage evaded a direct response and implied that Tice was being unfairly targeted.
Calls have been made for Tice’s removal from his position following an inquiry by the Sunday Times that raised significant concerns. Tice himself stated that he would rectify any errors if it is determined that his firms should have paid more to HMRC.
Farage recalled past scrutiny on Tice over his pro-Brexit stance and highlighted that investigations into individuals challenging the system are not uncommon. He emphasized Tice’s extensive business history and suggested that the accusations were politically motivated.
The tax expert Dan Neidle, in collaboration with The Sunday Times, examined Tice’s tax arrangements, alleging that his firms were established solely to receive dividends from his property investment firm and channel funds to the parent company, Reform UK.
Amidst the ongoing controversy, Labour chair Anna Turley demanded an explanation from Farage regarding Tice’s continued role within the party. Turley accused Farage of evading accountability and criticized Reform UK’s leadership for disregarding the seriousness of the situation.
In a statement, Tice defended his career accomplishments, emphasizing his contributions to various businesses and adherence to professional tax advice. He acknowledged the importance of tax compliance and expressed willingness to rectify any discrepancies in payments.
Tice criticized the ongoing efforts to tarnish his reputation, attributing it to deterring successful business figures from engaging in politics. He underscored his dedication to serving his constituents and highlighted the imperative of addressing the nation’s challenges rather than focusing solely on personal attacks.