Reform UK’s Matt Goodwin faced GB News complaint over colleague’s claim of ‘inappropriate comments’

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Helena Horton and Pippa CrerarFebruary 20, 2026 at 03:00 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Matt Goodwin, Reform UK's candidate in the Gorton and Denton byelection, faced a complaint of inappropriate comments, potentially sexually harassing, from a junior staffer at GB News in 2025. The woman alleged Goodwin made inappropriate remarks, including one about her appearance, leading her to file a complaint with HR. Goodwin offered an apology after the complaint was raised, and the woman later left GB News for unrelated reasons. Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader, was reportedly informed of the complaint before Goodwin's selection as a candidate. While GB News investigated the matter, Goodwin's lawyer characterized it as a minor workplace issue resolved by a difference in perception. Farage reportedly deemed the complaint not serious enough to reconsider Goodwin's candidacy.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Jordan Peterson 40% Andrew Gwynne 40% Natalie Fleet 40% Gorton and Denton 50% Guardian ×460% Nigel Farage ×370% Reform UK ×280% GB News ×580% Matt Goodwin ×1090%

Keywords

matt goodwin 100% sexual harassment 90% inappropriate comments 80% complaint 80% reform uk 70% gb news 70% nigel farage 60% hr department 60% byelection 50% workplace matter 40%