News / Crime
Former Tory candidate charged with general election betting offences
The Conservative candidate for Bristol North West in the 2024 general election is among more than a dozen people charged following an investigation into alleged cheating related to bets placed on the election’s timing.
Laura Saunders, 37, who lives in Bristol, has been charged by the Gambling Commission with offences under the Gambling Act.
The Conservatives withdrew their support for Saunders ahead of the election but her name was still on the ballot paper and she came third behind incumbent MP Darren Jones and Green candidate Mary Page.
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Saunders’ partner, Tony Lee, 47, who also lives in Bristol city centre, has also been charged with the criminal offence of cheating. At the time when the alleged offences were carried out, Lee was the director of campaigning for the Conservative Party.
The 15 people charged – including Craig Williams, former MP for Montgomeryshire – are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on June 13.
In a statement on their website, the Gambling Commission said that “as the independent regulator of gambling in Great Britain, (it) 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.”
Main photo: Laura Saunders
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