Keir Starmer has jokingly referenced a scandal involving the former leader of Reform UK in Wales accepting bribes from Russia as part of a Christmas jest during his last session of PMQs in 2025. Addressing MPs, parliamentary staff, and their families in Westminster, Starmer extended Christmas greetings before playfully advising members of Reform UK to report any suspicious gifts from mysterious individuals to the police.
The remark prompted laughter in the Commons, with Richard Tice, Reform’s deputy leader, reacting animatedly. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage, who appeared displeased about his limited speaking time in PMQs, was observed disapprovingly from the public gallery.
The joke alluded to Nathan Gill, the former leader of Reform in Wales, who was recently sentenced to over a decade in prison for accepting bribes to promote pro-Russia narratives in his public appearances. Gill, who previously served as an MEP for UKIP and the Brexit Party under Nigel Farage’s leadership, transitioned to lead Reform in Wales in 2021 but resigned after failing to secure a seat in the 2021 Senedd election.
Following Gill’s imprisonment, Keir Starmer initiated an investigation into foreign financial interference in British politics, labeling the case a “stain on our democracy.” Communities Secretary Steve Reed announced plans for an independent inquiry to address the issue.
In a separate incident, Mr. Reed condemned the actions of the corrupt politician, highlighting how Gill aligned himself with a hostile state responsible for tragic events, including the death of a British citizen and military aggression against Ukraine. He emphasized the need to eradicate such misconduct from the political landscape.
While Farage dismissed the need for an internal probe into Russian influences within Reform, he supported a broader investigation into potential political uncertainties. He acknowledged the prevailing doubts within various political circles and endorsed a nationwide inquiry to address any concerns.
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