Nigel Farage v Count Binface: Boris Johnson backs 'space warrior' against Reform leader on Clacton second by-election

Nigel Farage and Count BinfaceNigel Farage and Count BinfaceThere are a string of other minor candidates but the contest is shaping up to being, or at least being portrayed as, a largely two-way battle between Mr Farage and Count Binface.The Reform leader, who is favourite given that he won nearly half the vote at the 2024 general election, denies breaking any Commons rules over his financial affairs.But if he is found by Parliament’s anti-sleaze watchdog to having committed breaches, having been re-elected MP for Clacton, then he could face a recall petition and possibly a second by-election.Former prime minister Boris JohnsonPA ArchiveAppearing on Sky News’ Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips, Mr Johnson initially shied away from siding with either Mr Farage or Count Binface.“I think it would be a very bad idea for me to blight any candidate with my support,” he said.However, the ex-London Mayor suggested the by-election was unnecessary.He then ventured: “I thought Count Binface had rather a good point when he said that a vote for him would actually preclude the expense of a second by-election.”Nigel Farage is also facing questions about support received from long-term ally George CottrellPA ArchiveMr Cottrell reportedly recruited and paid three staff to work on Mr Farage’s social media before the general election, and continued to allow him to use a five-storey Georgian property he rented near Buckingham Palace.Reform has faced more funding allegations in recent days.Mr Farage has flatly rejected the claims of wrongdoing and says he followed Commons rules.But if he is found to have breached Commons rules on declaring interests and is suspended for more than 10 sitting days, it could trigger a recall petition, potentially leading to another Clacton by-election.Read More