The latest defection to Reform Marco Longhi has suggested that if Elon Musk’s potential donation to the populist party becomes a contentious issue, broader questions must be raised about political funding in Britain.
Speaking to GB News Political Editor Christopher Hope, Longhi emphasised that both Labour and the Conservatives have accepted funds from various sources over many decades.
The ex-Tory MP’s comments come amid reports that the tech billionaire is considering a significant donation to Reform UK.
Reports suggest Musk could donate up to $100 million to Reform UK following discussions with party leader Nigel Farage at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Longhi has defected to Reform from the Conservatives
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The potential donation comes as Musk has already demonstrated his willingness to influence global politics, having donated $277 million to support Trump in recent US Presidential elections.
The world’s richest man has recently faced criticism over his support for Germany’s AfD party and his interventions in British politics.
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Farage has highlighted Musk’s appeal to younger voters, noting in an interview with The Daily Telegraph: “The shades, the bomber jacket, the whole vibe. Elon makes us cool.”
The Reform UK leader added that Musk’s influence with young people “will be the case going on, and frankly that’s only just starting.”
Regarding potential donations, Farage confirmed that Musk was considering giving a “reasonable-sized” contribution, assuring that any donation would be “legal and above board.”
Current UK rules permit unlimited donations from UK voters or companies registered in Britain, with Musk’s social media platform X qualifying under these regulations.
Elon Musk has become more politically active in recent months Reuters
The potential donation has sparked concerns about foreign influence in British politics, with critics arguing for tighter regulations to protect the electoral system.
The British Electoral Commission has advocated for changes to the current system, including placing limits on company donations.
Addressing alternative funding models, Longhi told GB News: “If money and donations become an issue, then maybe we should talk about funding politics in a different way, where no donations are acceptable and the taxpayer funds it.”
The MP noted that while this debate has occurred multiple times, different approaches have always been chosen.
Regarding Musk specifically, Longhi stated it was “entirely up to Elon” and that any donation discussions would be “conversations for Nigel, the leadership and Elon should it come to pass.”