Fifteen individuals, including political figures and police officers, have been charged by the UK Gambling Commission over an alleged betting scandal involving advance knowledge of the 2024 general election date.
The charges, announced on Tuesday, follow a lengthy investigation launched in June 2024 into suspicious betting activity.
The Gambling Commission alleges that those involved used confidential information about the proposed election date to gain an unfair advantage on the betting markets.
Among those charged is Craig Williams, a former senior aide to ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. It is understood that the Conservative Party is now withdrawing its support for Williams in light of the accusations.
Other individuals charged reportedly include serving members of the Metropolitan Police and Conservative Party affiliates.
The charges fall under Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005, which makes it a criminal offence to cheat at gambling.
The law defines cheating as any form of deception or interference in relation to betting or gambling events. Convictions under this section can lead to up to two years’ imprisonment and/or a financial penalty.
The Met Police confirmed that additional charges, including misconduct in public office, are being considered in connection with the investigation.
All 15 individuals are expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 13 June 2025.
The case has sparked concerns about integrity within both government and law enforcement, with watchdogs and political commentators calling for stricter rules around insider information and gambling activities by public officials.
