Reform UK has been offering tours of Parliament for £300, which appears to breach House of Commons rules, according to recent reports. The Times revealed that a fundraising email was sent to some Reform supporters, offering exclusive tours around Westminster this Christmas.
The email, sent to activists in one region, promoted a Christmas party at a central London bar and nightclub as a fundraising event. However, it also offered an additional “package” which included a tour of Parliament with a Reform MP for an extra fee.
This move has sparked criticism, especially given that Reform UK has previously attacked Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer over accepting freebies. A party insider remarked, “It’s a bit rich of Reform to attack Starmer while trying to make money from their own MPs.”
Selling paid tours of Parliament is against House of Commons rules. Past MPs have faced penalties, including suspension and loss of the whip, for offering similar services.
The current rules clearly state that MPs must ensure any use of parliamentary facilities is solely in support of their official duties. Any activity that damages the reputation or integrity of the Commons could lead to an investigation by the standards commissioner.
This latest revelation puts Reform UK under scrutiny for potentially violating these rules as they look to raise funds ahead of the Christmas season.
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