Reform UK to relax scrutiny of would-be candidates

Reform UK has told its members it is introducing a less stringent "commonsense" vetting system for would-be candidates after complaints the previous checks were too strict, despite a recent series of controversies linked to the party.

- Peter Walker

In a message sent to members, Nigel Farage's party said the updated vetting was "more proportionate than before and designed to strike the right balance between party reputation, individual freedom of expression and public confidence".

This new system would be seen as "a blank slate", said the message, adding: "If you have previously failed vetting, you are strongly encouraged to reapply under the new standards."