Why cryptocurrency donations have been banned by Keir Starmer

PoliticsTechnology
25 Mar 2026 • 9:02 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A new report recommends banning political donations made in cryptocurrency and capping contributions from British nationals living abroad to prevent foreign interference.
  • These proposed changes would specifically outlaw Reform UK’s record-breaking £9m donation from a British businessman based in Thailand.
  • The independent review found that Iran, Russia, and China are actively attempting to 'cause harm' to the UK’s democracy.
  • It warns that foreign interference in the UK is 'real and persistent' and should be a much higher priority for the government.
  • The report was commissioned following Reform UK’s former leader in Wales, Nathan Gill, conviction for taking bribes to make pro-Russia statements while a member of the European Parliament.

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