"Do you ever wonder where your taxes go and whether your money is being spent properly? Take a look at what’s come across my desk. 'The Environmental Impact of Filmmaking: Using Star Wars to Improve Sector Sustainability Practices.' No, I’m not making this up—over £200,000 spent. The Cultural Legacies of the British Empire: Classical Music’s Colonial History—£1.2 million, funded by UK Research and Innovation, a non-departmental government body.
"You see what they’re doing in America. Don’t you get the feeling they should be doing the same here? It’s a complete waste of your taxpayer money, keeping people in jobs they don’t deserve," he said.
Farage has long held U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach in high regard. During a rally of Reform UK supporters, Farage said that the U.S. President should “serve as an inspiration.” He has, however, had some issues with DOGE head and tech mogul Elon Musk, after the billionaire called on Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK.
Farage told journalists his party was in “negotiations” with Musk prior to the Christmas break over a potential political donation. That came and went, though as Musk would go on to say that Farage “did not have what it takes” to lead the party.
"Of course I want his support, of course I will talk to him in America in a few days' time, of course I want to mend any broken fences that might exist," he said. "I have no desire to go to war with Elon Musk and I'm not going to, and I haven't done," he added. "I'm a huge admirer of him - I think he's an heroic figure."
The disagreement stems over the treatment and jailing of Tommy Robinson, who was jailed last year for contempt of court and allegedy repeating false allegations against a Syrian refugee.
Musk expressed support for Robinson, while Farage expressed less enthusiasm for the activist. "He has been in prison many times over the years... Once he almost brought down a trial at which gang rapists were ultimately convicted," Farage said.
