Reynolds is also a former treasurer of the all-party parliamentary group on China.

The MP is also the former treasurer of the all-party parliamentary group on China.

He was recently pictured with Farage and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy, amid reports he is preparing to donate a large sum of money to the party.

Candy said he and Musk exchanged messages following the announcement on Tuesday morning, but the new Reform UK treasurer refused to be drawn on any negotiations.

Castle Water, a Scottish utility firm co-owned by Conservative Party treasurer Graham Edwards, is understood to have made an offer for Thames ahead of a deadline for potential investors on Thursday, 5 December.