Ex-minister adds to UK calls for ban on political donations in cryptocurrency

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Kiran Stacey Policy editorMarch 1, 2026 at 11:00 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Former Labour minister Rushanara Ali is urging the UK government to ban political donations in cryptocurrency, citing concerns about foreign interference in British elections. Ali plans to propose an amendment to the elections bill, highlighting cryptocurrency's potential to circumvent donation laws through anonymity and fragmented contributions. She points to other countries, like Ireland and Brazil, that have already implemented such bans. This call comes amid growing concerns about illicit foreign money in UK politics and follows the conviction of a former Reform UK leader for accepting bribes for pro-Russia activities. Reform UK became the first UK party to accept cryptocurrency donations last year. Ali argues that without action, the threat of foreign interference will continue to grow.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States of America 30% Ireland 30% Brazil 30% Wales 40% Philip Rycroft 50% Nathan Gill 60% Reform UK ×260% Labour Party (UK) 70% United Kingdom ×380% Rushanara Ali ×490%

Keywords

cryptocurrency 100% political donations 90% foreign interference 80% british elections 70% digital currencies 60% donation laws 60% election bill 50% anonymity 50% reform uk 40%