The UK Gambling Commission has launched an investigation into a second Tory candidate over allegations that he placed a bet on the outcome of the upcoming general election.
The candidate, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is reported to have placed a substantial bet on their own party winning a majority in the 2024 general election. The bet was reportedly placed with a well-known bookmaker just days before the election was called by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The news comes just weeks after another Tory candidate, who was also not named, was suspended from the party after it was revealed that he had placed a bet on the outcome of the election. The Gambling Commission has confirmed that it is looking into the matter and will take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is found.
The Commission has strict rules in place to prevent individuals from betting on the outcome of elections, as this could potentially compromise the integrity of the democratic process. The regulator has the power to impose fines and even revoke licenses if it finds evidence of betting on election outcomes.
The Tory party has been quick to distance itself from the allegations, with a spokesperson stating that they take such matters very seriously and will cooperate fully with the Commission’s investigation. The party has also reiterated its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in public life.
The election bet scandal has caused a stir in Westminster, with many calling for tighter regulations on political betting in the UK. Some have raised concerns that betting on election outcomes could lead to a conflict of interest for candidates, as they may be tempted to make decisions that could influence the outcome of the election in order to win their bet.
As the investigation unfolds, the public will be watching closely to see how the Gambling Commission handles the matter and what implications it may have for the Tory party and the wider political landscape in the UK. The outcome of the investigation could have far-reaching consequences for the future of political betting in the country.