Investigations by the gambling regulator have revealed that a significant number of individuals, in addition to the leading Tories previously identified, are being looked into for their involvement in betting on the date of the general election. In a recent development, the regulator has expanded its inquiries to include potential instances of individuals using insider knowledge to place bets through a third party.
Sources have confirmed that the Gambling Commission, which closely monitors political betting, has requested information from major bookmakers regarding bets of £20 or more placed on the election date shortly after it was announced by Rishi Sunak on May 22nd. This move comes as the commission considers individuals connected to the political sphere as politically exposed persons (PEPs) who pose a higher risk for potential involvement in corruption and bribery due to their influential positions.
It was revealed on Saturday evening that Nick Mason, the Tory party’s chief data officer, is the fourth Conservative candidate or official to be investigated for their involvement in betting on the election. Mason has since taken a leave of absence and denied any wrongdoing. Last week, Craig Williams, parliamentary private secretary to Rishi Sunak and Tory candidate for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, admitted to placing a bet on the election date. The party’s director of campaigns, Tony Lee, and his wife Laura Saunders, Tory candidate for Bristol North West, were also placed under investigation earlier this week. Additionally, a member of Mr. Sunak’s close protection team has been arrested on suspicion of betting on the timing of the election.
When questioned about the investigations, Home Secretary James Cleverly stated that he had been advised not to discuss the matter and added that he does not condone individuals placing bets on the election. He also clarified that, to his knowledge, only a small number of individuals are involved in this betting activity and he has no reason to believe any ministers are among them.
A spokesperson for the Gambling Commission emphasized that their role is to regulate gambling in the interest of consumers and the public. They confirmed that the investigation into possible offenses related to the election date is ongoing and they are unable to provide any further details at this time. The commission also stated that they are neither confirming nor denying the identities of individuals involved in the investigation.
A spokesperson for the Conservative party echoed the commission’s statement and confirmed that they are not permitted to discuss any matters related to the investigation with the subject or any other persons.
The other candidates for Bristol North West are Caroline Gooch for the Liberal Democrats, Darren Jones for Labour, Scarlett O’Connor for Reform UK, Mary Page for the Green Party, Ben Smith for SDP. The other candidates for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr are Jeremy Brignell-Thorp for the Green Party, Oliver Lewis for Reform UK, Glyn Preston for the Liberal Democrats, Elwyn Vaughan for Plaid Cymru, and Steve Witherden for Labour.