The Wisdom of Athena slot demo Pragmaticlatest betting scandals before the upcoming elections in the United Kingdom

Elections can bring out the best or worstin people. In some, they may even bring out the bettor!

While this isn’t a big deal for everyday people, it can be pretty scandalous for those directly involved in the elections. Such is the case of Rishi Sunak’s close parliamentary aide, Craig Williams, who is in hot water for betting on the elections.

With the UK electionstaking place soon, here’s all you need to know about the Rishi Sunak scandal.

Rishi Sunak’s close aid under investigation

Shortly after the election campaign reached its midpoint, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s close parliamentary aide was called for an investigation. The man who has served as Sunak’s eyes and ears within the parliament was caught betting on the July election date.

MP Craig Williams served as Mr Sunak’s parliamentary private secretary in the House of Commons. Willaims wagered €100 on the July Election, days before Mr Sunak named the date the 4th of July.

According to sources, Williams placed the bet at Ladbrokes and, due to the odds at the time, could’ve won €500.The UK Gambling Commission and journalists have contacted Mr Williams. He stated that he placed a flutter on the General Election some weeks ago, which has now led to routine inquiries in which he will give his full cooperation.

A day after these events, Tory MP - Sir Philip Davies also came under fire after reports that he waged €8,000 and wouldlose his seat in Shipley. While Sir Philip has denied doing anything illegal, he is still under investigation.

Lash back from other officials

Labour’s Jonathan Ashworth was quick to comment, stating that Sunak's sitting on the information for over a week shows a lack of backbone when it comes to acting. He also noted that this shows Rishi Sunak is weak.

Lib Dem deputy leader Daisy Cooper says that Rishi Sunak needs to be suspended immediately, considering it was his close personal aid. Cooper feels that Rishi Sunak and the conservatives are taking voters for granted.

The conservative party stated that they were aware of the contact betweenthe candidate and the Gambling Commission but that it was a personal matter.

According to the polls, however, the parliamentary aide’s actions may impact the votes and other things. For Williams, the actions have led to questioning regarding inside information, and the punishment has yet to be determined.

Labour Party vs Tories

Labour Party Candidate Kevin Craig is also being investigated by the Gambling Commission. According to sources, Craig wagered against himself losing. The party has since suspended him.

Sky News reported that the betting, in this case, was on the election's outcomein his constituency, not the timing of the election.

When it comes towhat voters have to say, there are different opinions, but they all agree that Craig has at least been suspended, showing that something is being done about the situation. The conservative party has chosen to ‘sort theirs out privately’.

Others have expressed their hope that the winning partywill implement a responsible gambling initiatives.

The Labour Party has also demanded transparency from the Gambling Commission regarding the Tory betting scandal. Labour’s National Campaign Co-Ordinator, Pat McFadden, has asked that the details be releasedbefore the general election.

Politics is an interesting bet, but it'snot even the most popular. We have created a piece that sheds light on the most popular things people in the UK bet on. Make sure to check it out; you will be surprised! 

Published: July 3, 2024