Vetting candidates is a tricky process but Reform can’t seem to get it right

Reform UK is facing renewed questions about its candidate and staff vetting after several people linked to the party have faced serious charges or scrutiny over past remarks. The cases have highlighted the difficulty of building reliable internal checks while expanding quickly, and have frustrated Nigel Farage, who says he was unaware of some issues.

Former Hampshire council leader George Madgwick has been charged with 35 offences, including 12 alleged rapes, and says he is innocent. Reform said it did not know that security worker Ryan Dinnage faced a rape charge before he was convicted and jailed, while suspended councillor Glenn Gibbins denies a charge over allegedly offensive posts. The party’s vetting is now overseen by deputy chair Paul Nuttall; reported checks include speeches and mock interviews, while controversial social media posts are not automatically disqualifying.