Fifteen Charged in UK Election Gambling Scandal

Former Conservative MP Craig Williams, along with 14 others, has been charged with gambling offenses for allegedly placing bets on the timing of the UK's 2024 snap general election. The charges, brought by the Gambling Commission, follow an investigation into bets related to former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's surprise decision to call the election early. Among those charged are Laura Saunders, who was a Conservative election candidate, her husband Tony Lee, and Russell George, a member of the Senedd. This development follows the Metropolitan Police dropping its investigation due to insufficient evidence of misconduct. The accused are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on June 13, 2025. This case highlights ongoing scrutiny and legal action concerning election-related betting activities.