UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed deep anger over allegations that some Conservative Party members used inside information to bet on the date of the upcoming general election. Sunak stated that anyone found guilty of such actions should be expelled from the party and face legal consequences.
Sunak emphasized that the allegations are being thoroughly investigated by the relevant law enforcement authorities. He assured that if any individuals were found to have broken the law, they would face severe repercussions, including being removed from the Conservative Party.
These allegations have surfaced just two weeks before the general election, adding to the pressure on Sunak, whose party is currently trailing behind the Labour Party by 20 points in many polls.
Michael Gove, the housing minister, also condemned the alleged actions, stating that using inside information to bet is “deeply wrong.” He refrained from discussing specifics due to the ongoing investigation but supported the principle that such behavior is reprehensible.
Sunak had announced on May 22 that the general elections would be held on July 4. This decision surprised many, including members of his party, as the election was expected to be called later in the year. Under UK electoral laws, the prime minister has the discretion to call an election date within five years of the previous election.
The media reported that Laura Saunders, a Conservative candidate, is under investigation for alleged betting offenses. Saunders’ lawyer stated that she would cooperate with the investigation and criticized the media for prematurely publishing the story, which they claim infringes on her privacy rights.
The Conservative Party confirmed that the Gambling Commission had contacted them regarding a “small number of individuals” involved in the investigation. The party refrained from commenting further until the investigation was complete but mentioned that Tony Lee, the party’s director of campaigning and Saunders’ husband, took a leave of absence.
Reports have also emerged about a police bodyguard of Sunak being arrested for allegedly betting on the election date before it was publicly announced. Additionally, Sunak’s aide Craig Williams acknowledged being investigated for placing a bet on the July election date.
Betting is a common pastime in the UK, with people placing bets on various events, including elections. However, using inside information for betting is illegal and considered a criminal offense.
Comments