UKGC files charges against ex-Tory MP, senior Conservatives in election betting probe

Former Tory MP Craig Williams and 14 other individuals, including senior Conservative figures such as ex-party officials and a Welsh politician, have been charged by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). They are accused of betting on the date of the 2024 General Election using inside information, violating the Gambling Act 2005. If found guilty, they could face up to two years in prison and fines. The UKGC announced the charges on 14 April 2025. The bets in question were placed in May 2024, shortly before the election date was made public.

The investigation and charges were made in the United Kingdom. The case is being handled by the UK Gambling Commission. The individuals allegedly used confidential government information to place bets on the timing of the General Election before it was officially announced. This gave them an unfair advantage and broke the law.