Reform UK Media Presenter Previously Worked for Chinese State Media
Ray Addison, a lead media presenter for Reform UK, produced content for the Chinese state-run broadcaster CGTN as recently as September 2025. The reports focused on infrastructure in the Xinjiang region, where the Chinese government faces international accusations of human rights abuses.
Ray Addison, who currently leads media and podcast efforts for the political party Reform UK, was identified as a former contributor to China Global Television Network (CGTN), a state-controlled media outlet. According to reports, Addison produced a series of videos titled 'Raymond’s Xinjiang Stories' in September 2025, shortly after his departure from the British news channel GB News.
In these videos, Addison presented segments highlighting infrastructure developments within the Xinjiang province. This region has been the subject of significant international scrutiny, with various human rights organizations and governments accusing the Chinese state of committing genocide against the Uyghur population. Addison’s work for the state-run outlet involved describing himself as a CGTN correspondent while touring the region.
The disclosure of this professional history has drawn attention to the background of Reform UK’s communications staff. While the facts of his employment are established, the implications of his work for a state-controlled entity—particularly one operating in a region associated with severe human rights allegations—remain a point of discussion regarding the party's media operations. There has been no immediate public response from Reform UK regarding Addison’s past contract work or how it aligns with the party's current communications strategy.
📡 Media Analysis
How each outlet framed the story — angles, word choices, and what they chose to push or ignore.
Highlighted the potential hypocrisy of a right-wing party employing someone who worked for a foreign state-controlled propaganda machine.
"Chinese state propaganda channel"
✓ Only outlet to report: Identified the specific title of the video series, 'Raymond’s Xinjiang Stories,' and the exact timeline of his work following his exit from GB News.
🔍 What Nobody's Reporting
- ·Lack of comment or defense from Reform UK regarding their vetting process or awareness of Addison's background.
- ·Lack of statement from Ray Addison explaining his perspective on the nature of the work he performed for CGTN.
📰 Sources
0 A-rated source(s) among 1 total. Lowest trust: The Guardian (B)