TV doctor and former Brexit Party MEP, now Reform UK chairman, Dr David Bull is facing a fierce backlash after promoting discounted HIV self-test kits – during National HIV Testing Week, no less – despite the fact they’re completely free on the NHS.
🧪 ‘Discounted’ tests… that you don’t need to pay for
On 4 February, Dr Bull announced a partnership with sexual health brand Pasante, offering 30% off HIV self-testing kits. He also threw in a promo giveaway: a lifetime supply of condoms if you followed the brand and shared his post.
Bull, who trained as a doctor and made his name on This Morning and The Jeremy Vine Show, claimed the move was part of the goal to reach zero HIV transmissions by 2030.
But many saw it as something else entirely: a shameless cash-in on something that is – and should remain – a free public health service.
🧻 ‘Profiteering’, ‘grim’ and ‘shameless’
The reaction online was swift and brutal. Users lined up to point out that HIV tests are available free at NHS sexual health clinics and via postal services like the Terrence Higgins Trust.
“Abhorrent,” one user posted. “UK testing is free, fast and comes with professional support. There is no room for profit here.”
Another wrote:
“Why am I not surprised a Brexiteer is trying to make money off something people can and should get for free?”
The word “grifter” came up more than once.
🧾 No ad label, no clarity
Bull’s promotion wasn’t labelled as an advert or paid partnership, prompting questions about whether he stood to benefit financially from pushing the brand’s products.
Given his past in the Brexit Party – and his public profile as a TV medic – critics argued he should’ve known better than to muddy the waters during a vital week for public health messaging.
“Trained by the NHS, now trying to profiteer from people concerned they may be HIV positive. Classy,” one user wrote.
💡 You don’t need to pay to get tested
There are an estimated 6,600 people in the UK living with undiagnosed HIV. Testing is free, confidential, and often available by post.
You can find your nearest NHS testing service here, or visit the Terrence Higgins Trust for more advice and options – all without engaging in a sponsored post giveaway.
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