Doncaster Reform UK Councillor Removed Over Duplicate Airport Company Creation

Reform UK councillor David Knight has been stripped of his committee roles after co-founding 'Fly Doncaster (Auxiliary Services) Ltd', a company intended to secure council contracts related to Doncaster Sheffield Airport, which raised conflict of interest concerns. The business, registered on September 18, 2025, shares a name with the council's official airport management company but is unrelated to the council, leading to public confusion. While the creation of the company was legal, Reform UK criticized Knight for not consulting party leadership and viewed the venture as inappropriate for an elected official seeking financial gain. Deputy leader Rachel Reed, also a director, was initially implicated but defended by the party, with advice confirming her ability to continue chairing the overview and scrutiny management committee. Both councillors have begun steps to deregister from the company to address the controversy. The incident has prompted calls for higher accountability and integrity among elected representatives, with party leadership emphasizing the need to protect public trust.