Craig Williams Among 15 Charged in Gambling Scandal Over Election Betting
Fifteen individuals, including former MP Craig Williams, now face charges from the Gambling Commission related to a high-profile betting scandal surrounding the 2024 UK general election. The Craig Williams Election betting story broke soon after the UK election of 2024, only now have charges been brought.
Overview of the Craig Williams Election Betting Involving Political Figures
The investigation alleges that those involved placed wagers based on confidential information about the election date—information that had not yet been made available to news outlets or the general public.
Who Is Craig Williams and What Are the Allegations?
Craig Williams is a former Conservative MP who served Cardiff North (2015–2017) and later Montgomeryshire (2019–2024). He was also Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister from 2022 to 2024. In June 2024, just days before the election was announced, he placed a bet on the date—prompting a Gambling Commission investigation into possible misuse of insider information. The Conservative Party later withdrew its support, and Williams lost his seat in the 2024 general election.
Craig Williams’ Political Background
Craig Williams, who once served as the MP for Montgomeryshire and as a close aide to former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, is at the center of the controversy. Before the election was called, Williams was actively working within Conservative Party leadership circles.
Craig Williams Among 15 Charged in Gambling Scandal
According to the Gambling Commission, Williams and others are suspected of using insider knowledge to place bets on the timing of the general election, which was officially announced on 22 May 2024, with polling set for 4 July.
Politicians and Party Officials Facing Charges
Among the other individuals charged are:
- Russell George, Member of the Senedd, now suspended from the Welsh Conservatives
- Laura Saunders, former Conservative candidate for Bristol North West
- Anthony Lee, ex-campaign director for the Conservatives and Saunders’ partner
- Thomas James, director of the Welsh Conservatives
- Nick Mason, former chief data officer, currently suspended from his council group
More Names in the Investigation
Additional individuals charged include:
- Simon Chatfield (Farnham)
- Amy and Anthony Hind (Loughton, Essex)
- Jeremy Hunt (Horley), a former police officer with the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command
- Charlotte Lang (Brixton, London)
- Iain Makepeace (Newcastle Upon Tyne)
- Paul Place (Hammersmith, London)
- James Ward (London)
- Jacob Willmer (Richmond, London)
Conservative Party’s Statement on the Charges
The Conservative Party issued a statement acknowledging the gravity of the situation, noting that current staff involved have been suspended. A spokesperson emphasized the party’s commitment to integrity and transparency under its new leadership.
“These incidents took place in May last year. Our party is now under new leadership and we are cooperating fully with the Gambling Commission to ensure that their investigation can conclude swiftly and transparently.”
Welsh Conservatives and Labour Respond
Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar stated that Russell George’s suspension was a “neutral act” pending judicial outcomes. Bernard Gentry, chair of the Welsh Conservatives, expressed disappointment but cautioned against premature judgment.
Labour’s Ellie Reeves called the charges a “very serious development,” demanding strong accountability from the Conservative leadership.
Legal Implications and Upcoming Court Date
All 15 individuals have been charged under section 42 of the Gambling Act, which addresses cheating in gambling. If convicted, they could face fines or up to two years in prison.
Craig Williams Among 15 Charged in Gambling Scandal: Court Appearance Set
The accused are expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June 2025. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that while former officer Jeremy Hunt is among the charged, nine other officers involved in the investigation will face no further action.
Timeline of Events in Craig Williams Election Betting
Key Dates in the Scandal
- May 2024: Alleged betting activity occurs
- 22 May 2024: Rishi Sunak announces the general election for 4 July
- Early June 2024: Reports surface of Craig Williams placing a bet
- June 2024: Conservative Party withdraws support for Williams and Saunders
- April 2025: Gambling Commission formally charges 15 individuals
Craig Williams admitted to a “huge error of judgment” when approached for comment last year, but declined to confirm whether he had insider knowledge at the time of his bet.
Craig Williams Election Betting Scandal: What’s Next?
As the investigation unfolds, political observers, party leaders, and the public alike will be watching closely. The scandal has already caused ripples within Conservative ranks, prompting suspensions and leadership commentary.
This case shines a spotlight on the intersection of politics and personal gain, raising concerns over transparency and ethics in public life. Whether the courts find these individuals guilty or not, the story is far from over—and its outcome could reshape public trust in the political establishment.
If you’re struggling with gambling problems, please visit our responsible gambling page for help and support.