SUNAK REFUSES TO SAY IF HE TOLD AIDE ELECTION DATE BEFORE HE PLACED BET The list of those under investigation grows
Rishi Sunak has refused to say if he told one of his closest parliamentary aides the date of the election before he placed a bet on it.
Just to remind you, Craig Williams, who has now been suspended as the Conservative candidate in Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, admitted he “committed a serious error of judgment” but “not an offence” and declared he would continue to fight to win his seat.
Speaking to broadcasters, the PM insisted he was “furious” when he first learned about the allegations, and added “if anyone is breaking the rules, they should face the full consequences of the law, whether that’s the Gambling Commission or the police.”
Pushed repeatedly on whether he told Mr Williams – his parliamentary private secretary – the date in advance, Mr Sunak refused to say.
The Metropolitan Police has just given an update on the investigation into bets around the general election.
Seven police officers have so far been identified as having placed bets on the timing of the election, the force said.
One of Rishi Sunak’s close protection officers was arrested 10 days ago on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The officer has been bailed and is subject to restricted duties.
A further six officers have been identified as having placed bets on the timing of the election, and are under investigation by the Gambling Commission.