Nigel Farage has said he will resign as MP for Clacton and stand again in a byelection, turning scrutiny of his finances into a direct electoral test.

The Reform UK leader said the contest would let voters judge him, describing it as a fight between the public and the political establishment. His decision follows reports that he is facing parliamentary standards scrutiny over undeclared gifts and financial support.

Farage has denied wrongdoing and accused opponents and the media of trying to undermine Reform UK. His critics say the move is designed to shift attention away from serious questions about his funders.

If his resignation is formally completed, a byelection will be triggered in Clacton, the Essex seat Farage won in 2024. Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Greens are expected to contest the seat.