Overview

• The UK's Gambling Commission has charged 15 individuals, including ex-Tory MP Craig Williams, under the Gambling Act 2005 for alleged insider betting on the 2024 general election date.
• The charges involve claims that confidential knowledge of the election timing was used to gain an unfair advantage in betting markets, a criminal offense under UK law.
• Craig Williams, Rishi Sunak's former parliamentary aide, admitted to placing a £100 bet predicting the July 4 election date just days before it was announced.
• Other prominent figures charged include Russell George, a Welsh Senedd member, Tony Lee, the Conservatives' former campaign director, and Nick Mason, the party's former chief data officer.
• All 15 individuals are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on June 13, 2025, as the Gambling Commission continues its investigation.