Legal

Date: 14.04.2025

by Sebastian Warowny

UK Gambling Commission Charges 15 Over Election Date Betting

The UK Gambling Commission has formally charged 15 individuals following an investigation into alleged insider betting on the timing of the 2024 general election. Among the accused are political figures, a former police officer, and several private citizens, all suspected of placing bets before the official election date was announced.

Charges Stem from Bets on Pre-Announced Election Date

The investigation was launched in June 2024 after reports emerged of suspicious wagers placed on the date of the UK general election. These bets were made before the announcement by then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, raising concerns of potential misuse of privileged information.

The Commission’s probe quickly expanded, drawing in multiple individuals believed to have had access to inside knowledge about the election timeline. The allegations fall under Section 42 of the Gambling Act 2005, which covers cheating at gambling, including using information not available to the public to gain an advantage.

Political Figures and Former Police Officer Among the Accused

The list of those charged includes high-profile names from political circles. Former Conservative MP Craig Williams and Laura Saunders, the Conservative Party’s candidate for Bristol North West, are both facing charges. Their involvement was previously disclosed during the early stages of the Commission’s inquiry.

Also charged is Jeremy Hunt, a 55-year-old former police officer, who was reportedly part of the prime minister’s security detail. He was arrested in connection with the case shortly after the investigation began.

Full List of Individuals Charged

The 15 individuals, all accused of cheating under the Gambling Act, are expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday 13 June 2025 at 10 a.m. The full list includes:

  • Simon Chatfield, 51, Lower Bourne, Farnham

  • Russell George, 50, Newtown, Wales

  • Amy Hind, 34, and Anthony Hind, 36, both from Loughton, Essex

  • Thomas James, 38, Brecon, Wales

  • Charlotte Lang, 36, Brixton

  • Anthony Lee, 47, Bristol

  • Iain Makepeace, 47, Newcastle Upon Tyne

  • Nick Mason, 51, Gillingham

  • Paul Place, 53, Hammersmith

  • James Ward, 40, London

  • Jacob Willmer, 39, Richmond, London

“The Commission, as the independent regulator of gambling in Great Britain, is committed to protecting consumers and the public, ensuring confidence in the industry, and upholding high standards among licensees.

Under Sections 27 and 28 of the Gambling Act, the Commission has the authority to investigate offences and bring criminal prosecutions where appropriate.

The Commission is committed to upholding the law and will continue to take robust action against illegal betting practices, including investigating and prosecuting offences.

The Gambling Commission cannot provide further details on ongoing criminal cases.” – the regulator said in an official statement.