Laura Saunders, who stood down as Conservative candidate for Bristol North West before last year’s general election, has been charged with betting offences by the Gambling Commission.
Fifteen people, including Ms Saunders’ partner Anthony Lee, a former director of campaigning for the Conservative Party, face charges following the commission’s investigation, which was launched during the run-up to the 2024 poll.
Announcing the charges, the commission said the investigation focused on individuals “suspected of using confidential information – specifically advance knowledge of the proposed election date – to gain an unfair advantage in betting markets”.
The accused are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on 13 June. Those found guilty of an offence under section 42 of the Gambling Act could face a fine or a jail term of up to two years.
On 22 May 2024, Rishi Sunak announced the general election would be held on 4 July that year – a decision that overturned expectations of an autumn poll.
In early June 2024, it was reported that a then MP and aide to the PM, Craig Williams, had placed a bet on the date of the general election.
Following the commission’s decision to launch an investigation, the Conservative Party pulled its support for Williams and Saunders.
Laura Saunders had been selected in October 2023 to contest the seat, which was held at the election by Labour’s Darren Jones, now Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
A Conservative Party spokesman said: “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.”