Election betting scandal investigated over alleged insider wagers

Allegations of using insider information to place bets on the date of a snap general election have thrown the UK political scene into turmoil. Up to five individuals, including a sitting politician and several police officers, could face prosecution. A source told Sky News, “The Gambling Commission is looking to prosecute at least three suspects, but possibly up to five. This includes a politician and a close protection guard.”

The investigation focuses on claims that sensitive information regarding the election date was leaked and exploited to make substantial betting profits. The Gambling Commission is now investigating potential violations of Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005 (Cheating). This follows a previous investigation by the Metropolitan Police into potential misconduct in public office.

How the allegations unfolded

The scandal began in June 2024 when Craig Williams, former MP for Montgomeryshire, and parliamentary private secretary to then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, admitted to being under investigation. Williams placed a £100 bet at Ladbrokes on a July election just days before Sunak’s shock announcement on 22 May 2024. Based on the odds, he stood to win £500.

On 13 June, Williams publicly acknowledged the investigation in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I put a flutter on the general election some weeks ago. This has resulted in some routine inquiries, and I confirm I will fully co-operate with these.” His admission brought the betting scandal into the spotlight.

Betting companies also flagged irregular wagers placed on the exact election date, prompting further scrutiny. The Gambling Commission launched its investigation, interviewing several individuals under caution while gathering documentary and electronic evidence.

During the Conservative Party Conference, Sky News reported that the Gambling Commission had interviewed Sir Oliver Dowden, former Deputy Prime Minister, as a witness, not a suspect. Liam Booth-Smith, Sunak’s Downing Street chief of staff, was also questioned as a witness earlier in the summer.

These interviews have highlighted the reach of the investigation, which aims to determine whether privileged information was used to gain an unfair advantage in the betting markets.

The Metropolitan Police’s involvement

The Metropolitan Police initially investigated whether misconduct in public office could apply to the case. However, on 23 August 2024, they announced their withdrawal, citing insufficient evidence to meet the high bar required for such charges.

Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin commented, “These allegations caused a significant dent in public confidence during the election campaign, and it was right that they were investigated to explore all possible offences. While our involvement in the criminal investigation now ceases, it’s important this is not misinterpreted as an all-clear for those whose cases were looked at.”

The Gambling Commission has since continued its investigation, focusing on breaches of the Gambling Act. Seven police officers who allegedly placed bets are still under investigation by both the Commission and the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.

The Gambling Commission’s response

Andrew Rhodes, chief executive of the Gambling Commission, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to uncovering potential wrongdoing. On 23 August, he stated, “We have remained focused on our criminal investigation into confidential information being used to gain an unfair advantage when betting on the date of the general election. Our investigation continues to progress, and we have interviewed several suspects under caution.”

The Commission has emphasised the importance of protecting the investigation’s integrity, refusing to disclose further details about suspects or the total number of individuals under suspicion.

Broader implications

The scandal has reignited debate over the ethics of betting on politically sensitive events. Critics argue such markets create opportunities for exploitation, calling for tighter oversight and restrictions on wagers related to elections and government decisions.

As the works to conclude its investigation, the case has already exposed significant vulnerabilities in the handling of sensitive information. Regardless of the outcome, the scandal has amplified calls for greater transparency and stricter enforcement across both the gambling and political sectors.

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