Chair of UK National Security Council Calls for Ban on Cryptocurrency Political Donations to Prevent Foreign Interference in UK Elections

BlockBeats News, February 25th: Chairman of the UK National Security Council, Matt Western, has called for an emergency temporary ban on cryptocurrency political donations to prevent foreign interference in UK elections.

Matt Western stated that such donations need to be paused until the risks associated with cryptocurrency donations, including thorough due diligence on the source of funds, are addressed. The committee also called for a review of the sentencing for electoral offenses, believing that a stronger deterrent is needed.

Western has written to the Cabinet Office Minister responsible for elections, Steve Reed, urging immediate action — as the recent Electoral Integrity Bill did not include provisions to restrict cryptocurrency donations.

Earlier this year, the Reform UK party became the first to accept cryptocurrency donations, reportedly receiving the first batch of registrable cryptocurrency donations and setting up a dedicated crypto portal. In his letter, Western expressed concerns that given the deteriorating global security environment, the committee is worried that the intention of foreign interference in UK political finance may escalate ahead of the next elections.