The investigation by Channel 4 News and investigative journalism organisation Verbatim claimed that the party had commissioned three polls that were allegedly paid for by an undercover team posing as a wealthy US donor.

The polls cost a combined £32,500, according to Channel 4 News. The polls were carried out by JL Partners.

The research had been reported in two newspapers without the publications knowing it was commissioned by Reform and paid for by an apparent foreign donor.

UK electoral law states that permissible sources of donations to political parties need to be UK registered, or an individual who is on a UK electoral register.

The British Polling Council also requires members to disclose clients who commission surveys if the data and research findings enter the public domain.

In a statement, the Market Research Society said: “We are aware of the Channel 4 reporting involving an MRS company partner. The matter is being referred to the Market Research Standards Board for review in line with its established complaint procedures.”

The British Polling Council said: “With respect to the Channel 4 News investigation of polling apparently commissioned by Reform and conducted by JL Partners, it is clear there have been breaches of British Polling Council Rule 2.1.

“We are seeking further information from the BPC member concerned and expect them to make information available after further consideration.”

In a statement, JL Partners said that between 22nd January 2026 and 11th July 2026, IL Office LLC paid for the three pieces of research, and JL Partners said it understood thr company was the family office of a UK-based philanthropist, William Lockwood.

The company added that although it was aware that a relationship existed between IL Office LLC and Reform UK, it was not informed of the precise nature, extent or duration of that relationship.

The statement added: “We understood that their relationship was regarded as private, and we respected that. There appeared to be nothing out of the ordinary about IL Office LLC and we found Mr Lockwood to be an engaging and well-informed individual. In short, we had no grounds for concern.

“The polls paid for by IL Office LLC were conducted to the same high standard of professionalism as all the work produced by JL Partners. The research and methodology were robust and we have every confidence in the accuracy of the results.”

Research Live has contacted Reform UK for comment. A party spokesperson has been reported in other news publications as having said: “Reform UK has been the target of a hoax perpetuated by foreign-funded, climate change activists posing as would-be party donors. The party denies any wrongdoing.

“Reform UK has a robust vetting process for prospective donors approved by the Electoral Commission.”

The Electoral Commission has been approached for comment.