The Trump administration's fingerprints are once again evident in British politics, this time with plans to pump $12 million into two UK organisations with strong ties to Conservative MPs Jacob Rees-Mogg and Toby Young. As details of the funding package emerge, critics warn that it could represent a misuse of public funds to exert influence over foreign governments. According to documents reviewed by The Guardian, the money is part of a broader effort by the US State Department to support groups deemed favourable by the Trump administration in various European countries.
The proposed grants include $7 million for 878, an organisation founded by Rees-Mogg and his former special adviser Dr Radomir Tylecote. While the group claims to be "nonpartisan" and focused on advancing "fundamental freedoms", its website reveals a more nuanced agenda that includes "ending mass immigration" and promoting what it calls "our ancient culture". Despite these stated objectives, US officials justify the funding by citing 878's unique role in promoting free speech – a justification that seems at odds with the organisation's founders' own political affiliations.
The other recipient of US funds is Free Speech Union International, an offshoot of the FSU founded by Toby Young. The $5 million grant is intended to support its work "promoting free speech and countering digital overregulation" in the UK, Europe, and Australia. However, critics argue that the FSU has a partisan agenda, often campaigning on issues that have become rallying points for Conservative politicians.
Both Rees-Mogg and Young were scheduled to speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in London this week, an event that has drawn criticism for its perceived attempt to export American-style conservatism to British politics. Earlier this month, Young appeared on GB News with Rees-Mogg, warning that the UK's social media censorship policies could provoke a negative reaction from figures such as Donald Trump and JD Vance.
The revelation is set to pose an early challenge for incoming Labour Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who has indicated he will be "very upfront" with Donald Trump regarding any disagreements. When asked about the proposed funding, a US State Department spokesperson stated that decisions were still under "active deliberation", and that foreign assistance grants would undergo a standard and rigorous vetting process.