Elon Musk has said Reform UK needs a new leader because Nigel Farage “doesn’t have what it takes”. The tech billionaire’s comments came just hours after Farage described him as “a hero”. His latest intervention on UK politics casts serious doubt on claims he was prepared to make a substantial donation to Reform.

Nigel Farage had said he was in negotiations to get Elon Musk to donate to Reform to help it challenge the dominant Labour and Conservative parties.