Conservative leader says Reform UK by-election in Clacton is fake

The Conservative Party leader said Nigel Farage triggered a by-election in Clacton-on-Sea by resigning as MP and labeled the contest a fake by-election. Speaking to GB News, she confirmed the party will not stand candidates in the current ballot. She said she will field candidates in a later by-election after an investigation into Farage's finances concludes.

She accused Farage of resigning to avoid scrutiny of a £5 million gift and an ongoing standards investigation. She described the move as a response to pressure and said Farage should have explained the donation instead.

Response to family safety concerns The Conservative leader acknowledged press attention on Farage's family but said it does not justify his public statements toward journalists. She noted that public figures, including members of the royal family, face similar scrutiny under a free press.

She also criticized Reform UK MPs for not voting on a recent measure regarding early prisoner releases. She said the party has focused on complaints rather than parliamentary work. The Conservative leader rejected suggestions that she fears Farage and said she has faced questions without a honeymoon period since taking her role.