Parliament May Review Betting Rules for Politicians Amid Election Scandal, Sunak Signals

2024 Election: Sunak suggests parliamentary review of politicians' betting rules following controversy

The Prime Minister has expressed disapproval of gambling on elections, stating it's "not something I would do," and reaffirms his warning that he will expel any Conservative Party members who are caught violating these standards.

Friday, June 28, 2024 6:09

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak noted that Parliament is "always able" to review the regulations governing gambling for politicians, in response to suggestions for a prohibition akin to the one imposed on football players.

The prime minister stated that he would not engage in betting on election outcomes, emphasizing that the immediate focus should be on determining if any misconduct has occurred.

He reiterated his warning that he would expel members from the Conservative Party if they were found to have violated the rules.

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In response to the gambling controversy currently impacting the Conservative campaign, Mr. Sunak shared his remarks, further complicating his electoral challenges.

So far, five Conservative members have been implicated in the Gambling Commission's investigation, though there are indications that up to 15 MPs and party officials might be involved, though these figures have not been officially verified by the regulatory body.

Investigations are currently underway involving at least seven officers from the Metropolitan Police.

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2024 Election: Sunak suggests parliamentary review of politicians’ gambling regulations following controversy

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Following a disclosure by Sky News, it has been confirmed that Rishi Sunak's chief aide at Downing Street, Liam Booth-Smith, has participated in the regulatory investigation. However, insiders emphasized that he was involved only as a witness and is not under suspicion.

Grave repercussions

Mr. Sunak stated: "The Gambling Commission is appropriately tasked with probing any misconduct. I have been unequivocally clear that they must pursue this and ensure that anyone found violating the rules faces the complete repercussions under the law – and I will make certain they are expelled from the Conservative Party."

"Simultaneously, upon being informed of certain issues, we have carried out our own internal investigations and have decided to suspend two candidates as a result."

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Regarding politicians betting on elections, he commented, "I personally wouldn't engage in that; the regulations that oversee the actions and ethics of MPs are determined by parliament and its committees. Obviously, this is an area that parliament can always choose to review going forward."

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Previously, SNP chief John Swinney expressed, "I believe that those engaged in politics should avoid gambling on election results.

"As individuals, we gather unique insights during our election campaign travels, equipping us with a deeper understanding than many others who may not be as informed about current events."

"It seems to me that a similar rule to the one in soccer, where players are prohibited from betting on matches they are participating in, should also be implemented in the realm of politics."

He stated: "I want to clarify that I have never made any bets in politics, nor do I intend to, and I believe others should refrain from doing so as well."

Demand for overhaul of betting regulations

In 2014, the Football Association strengthened its gambling regulations to combat match-fixing, implementing a comprehensive prohibition that bars all professional football players from betting. Violations of these rules could lead to severe penalties, including the possibility of being banned for life from the sport.

They are also forbidden from sharing insider information with others who might use it to place bets.

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Sir Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, acknowledged making two bets on his party's success in past elections and has urged a comprehensive reassessment of gambling laws concerning political activities, highlighting the necessity for enhanced clearness and openness.

Scottish leader Alex Cole-Hamilton admitted to making minor bets on the results of certain electoral seats on July 4th. However, he contended that his actions were distinct from insider betting, describing them as a way to demonstrate "support" for his colleagues.

The Conservative Party has pulled backing for two candidates currently under scrutiny for allegedly gambling on the date of the general election, and two senior party members have temporarily stepped down from their roles.

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A member of the Conservative party in the Senedd has temporarily left their role in the shadow cabinet of the Welsh parliament due to an ongoing investigation.

In a related matter, Labour has suspended a candidate who placed bets on his own defeat in the electoral race he was contesting.

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