In a developing story, former UK Deputy Prime Minister Sir Oliver Dowden has been interviewed amidst an ongoing investigation into alleged election betting using insider information about the 2024 UK general election, according to Sky News.
The probe, spearheaded by the Gambling Commission, examines accusations that individuals with privileged knowledge of the election date placed bets, potentially breaching gambling regulations.
Sir Oliver Dowden’s interview comes after similar discussions with other key figures linked to former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, including former parliamentary aide Craig Williams and ex-chief of staff Liam Booth-Smith. Although Dowden is not under investigation, he engaged with police to aid their inquiries.
This inquiry follows the revelation that Craig Williams had placed a £100 wager on a July election shortly before Sunak’s official announcement of the date on May 22. At least four individuals are currently under scrutiny by the commission concerning the alleged betting activities.
Earlier, the Metropolitan Police concluded its own investigation, stating that the alleged offenses did not meet the requisite “high bar” to establish misconduct in public office. However, the Gambling Commission has intensified its efforts, reportedly seizing “hundreds of documents” from the Conservative Party headquarters as part of its investigation.
Former Prime Minister Sunak has not yet been interviewed, although numerous party officials have participated in the investigation. Sky News notes that concerns have been voiced about the timing of the leak regarding Dowden’s interview, coinciding with the opening day of the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.
As the Gambling Commission progresses with its investigation, more interviews are anticipated with the aim of uncovering the truth behind these betting allegations. The inquiry is expected to continue over the coming months, with further developments likely.
Stay informed as this story unfolds and new information comes to light regarding the election betting probe.
