The UK gambling regulator today (14 April) announced it has charged 15 people with offences under the Gambling Act 2005, following an investigation into alleged cheating on bets placed on the timing of the 2024 General Election.
Williams (pictured) is a name widely associated with the scandal, with its origins in a Guardian report into his £100 bet made on 19 May that the election would take place in July, three days before the date was announced by then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Alongside the former personal private secretary to the prime minister, a slew of other senior Tories were included on the list, including a former candidate, a Welsh politician and Party HQ staffers.
The investigation, which began June 2024, centred on individuals suspected of using confidential information in these bets, specifically advance knowledge of the proposed election date, to gain an unfair advantage in betting markets.
The betting scandal did significant damage to the Conservative Party’s election prospects, with the party ultimately achieving the worst result in its history.
Other individuals charged include the former Conservative Party chief marketing officer Simon Chatfield, ex-chief data officer Nick Mason, one-time director of campaigning Anthony Lee and MP candidate Laura Saunders.
In addition, Tory Welsh Parliament member Russell George has been indicted, alongside former special advisor Jacob Willmer and former police officer Jeremy Hunt.
If convicted, each person could face a two-year prison sentence as well as a potential fine.
The regulator said in a release: “The Commission, as the independent regulator of gambling in Great Britain, is committed to protecting consumers and the public, ensuring confidence in the industry, and upholding high standards among licensees.
“The Commission is committed to upholding the law and will continue to take robust action against illegal betting practices, including investigating and prosecuting offences.
“The Gambling Commission cannot provide further details on ongoing criminal cases.”
The case is an ongoing criminal matter led by the Gambling Commission and is separate to the previously reported Met Police investigation, which has been discontinued.
Dingnews.com 16/04/2025