The Metropolitan Police has concluded its investigation into betting offences witnessed during the General Election campaign.
In June, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) was alerted to suspicious bets placed on the timing of the General Election, called for 4 July by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Drawing negative headlines, the incident branded “Gamblegate”— led to the Conservative Party withdrawing its support from two candidates who were under investigation for these offences.
Conservative MP Craig Williams, who admitted to placing a £100 wager on the election date, stated that he had “made a huge error of judgement.”
Despite his admission, Williams maintained that he did not commit any criminal offence and expressed his determination to clear his name.
However, the scandal’s fallout led to the Conservative Party distancing itself from both Williams and Laura Saunders, another candidate implicated in the controversy. Although both candidates remained on the ballot due to the closure of nominations, they no longer enjoy the party’s official backing.
The Met Police’s investigation began after allegations surfaced that politicians and police officers had used insider information to place bets on the date of the General Election.
The claims prompted immediate action from both the Gambling Commission and the Metropolitan Police. The investigation initially took charge of a small number of cases where misconduct in public office was alleged.
However, after gathering evidence, the Met concluded that the evidence did not meet the necessary threshold (high-bar) to prove misconduct in public office and therefore ceased its involvement in the investigation.
Despite the Metropolitan Police stepping back, the Commission continues to investigate potential breaches of the Gambling Act.
The ongoing inquiry focuses on whether confidential information was improperly used to gain an unfair advantage when betting on the election date. The Commission is actively gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses as part of this process.
With proceedings yet to follow, seven police officers remain under investigation by both the Gambling Commission and the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.
“While our involvement in the criminal investigation now ceases, it’s important that it is not misinterpreted as an all clear for those whose cases were looked at,” Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin said.
“There are still Gambling Act offences to consider and it is appropriate that they are taken forward by investigators from the Gambling Commission who have particular expertise in this field.”
https://sbcnews.co.uk/sportsbook/2024/08/23/met-police-hands-gamblegate-back-to-ukgc/