Reform UK has received a second substantial donation of £36 million in as many days, with cryptocurrency investor Christopher Harborne announcing he has matched a record-breaking gift made by Ben Delo.

The dual donations, totaling £72 million, represent the largest sums ever given to a UK political party since declarations began in 2001 and significantly surpass the total amount received by all UK political parties combined last year, which was just over £69 million.

Harborne, who is based in Thailand, stated in an opinion piece that his competitive spirit motivated him to match Delo's donation, emphasizing that he expected no personal return. Reform UK indicated the substantial funds will be allocated to hiring "the brightest and best minds" for policy development and creating "the most comprehensive plan for government ever."

This influx of significant funding comes as Reform UK faces increased scrutiny over its finances. The government is considering measures to cap donations from British expatriates to UK political parties. Reform leader Nigel Farage commented that the generosity of Harborne and Delo would enable the party to compete on a "level playing field" in the upcoming general election.

Harborne has previously provided millions in donations to Reform UK and Nigel Farage. Farage is currently under investigation by the parliamentary standards commissioner regarding the declaration of a £5 million cash gift from Harborne before the 2024 election, which Farage maintains was a private gift unrelated to his official duties.

The party's financial dealings have also been subject to wider scrutiny following a broadcast by Channel 4 News that appeared to show senior Reform aides discussing ways to circumvent electoral law concerning foreign donations. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed an investigation into these matters, though the party denies any wrongdoing.

Harborne described Reform UK as a "start-up party" that requires substantial financial resources beyond membership fees to establish itself and prepare for potential governance. He noted that he had already secured sufficient personal wealth for his lifetime.

Ben Delo, who also announced his donation via an opinion piece, expressed a desire for a "fair fight and a level playing field." He had previously stated he was relocating back to Britain from Hong Kong and suggested that Reform UK should focus more on "preparing for government" rather than solely on fundraising.