Equalities watchdog probes Reform UK after documentary exposé

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has formally written to Reform UK to investigate allegations of discrimination following the broadcast of an undercover television series.

The commission, which serves as the UK’s official equalities watchdog, sent the letter after ITV aired Undercover: A Year in Reform in October. The program documented internal discussions among party members, including councillors and candidates, who expressed views described by the watchdog as racist and misogynistic.

One prominent example from the footage featured Alan Feeney, a Reform councillor and deputy mayor of Solihull. He was recorded calling Asian homeowners parasites and stating that no more than 1% of the British population should be non-white. Other segments showed a Bromley councillor suggesting King Charles should be killed, while another official made sexual comments about female colleagues.

The documentary also included Reform MP Sarah Pochin, who complained that the party culture was chauvinistic and riven with alpha male dynamics. In response to the broadcast, the EHRC stated it received multiple complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010.

The letter asks the party to provide information on its compliance with the Equality Act. The commission noted that political parties must take steps to avoid discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, belief, or sex. It urged the party to review its policies and practices to identify and address potential areas of discrimination or victimization.

Reform UK spokesperson responded that the party is confident it has fully complied with its legal obligations. The spokesperson added that there is no room for racism in Reform UK. The party previously reported the ITV production and its reporters to police and has threatened civil legal action against the broadcaster.

This inquiry follows a similar letter the EHRC sent to the Greens in England and Wales weeks earlier. That letter sought information about a new policy equating Zionism with racism and calling for a single Palestinian state in place of Israel.