A property company owned by Reform UK deputy leader Ben Tice failed to pay £91,000 in tax on dividends, according to a report by the Sunday Times. The party has dismissed the issue as a “minor administrative error” and emphasized that the matter is being resolved.
The tax shortfall, linked to dividends distributed by Tice’s property firm, has sparked scrutiny amid growing public focus on political accountability and transparency. Reform UK, a party positioning itself as a challenger to mainstream political establishments, has faced increased media attention as it gains traction in opinion polls.
Sources close to the party claim the oversight was unintentional and stress that steps have been taken to rectify the situation. “This is a routine matter that has been blown out of proportion,” said one insider, speaking on condition of anonymity. Analysts note that such incidents, while common in business, can carry political weight when involving high-profile figures.
The controversy comes as Reform UK seeks to position itself as a party of fiscal discipline and integrity. Critics argue that the tax issue undermines this message, while supporters dismiss it as a non-story. The resolution of this matter could influence public perception of the party’s credibility ahead of upcoming elections.