<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has withdrawn Conservative Party support for two parliamentary candidates who are under investigation by the Gambling Commission over allegations of betting on the date of the upcoming general election.</p>

<p>The two candidates, Craig Williams from Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, and Laura Saunders from Bristol North West, are facing scrutiny, for potentially using confidential information to place bets on the election date.</p>

<p>The Labour Party has also suspended one of its general election candidates. Kevin Craig, Labour's candidate for the Central Suffolk and North Ipswich constituency, has been "administratively" suspended by the party pending the outcome of the Gambling Commission's probe.</p>

<p>The Conservative party said, “As a result of ongoing internal inquiries, we have concluded that we can no longer support Craig Williams or Laura Saunders as parliamentary candidates at the forthcoming general election."</p>

<p>“We have checked with the Gambling Commission that this decision does not compromise the investigation that they are conducting, which is rightly independent and ongoing.”</p>

<p>As the nomination process has already concluded, the two candidates will still be listed on the ballot papers as representing the Conservative Party. However, they no longer have the official backing and endorsement of the party leadership.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brahmos-missile-enhances-our-defence-deterrent-capabilities-philippines-envoy-josel-francisco-ignacio-734897">Brahmos missile enhances our defence, deterrent&nbsp;capabilities: Philippines&nbsp;envoy Josel Francisco Ignacio</a></p>

<p>Sunak confirmed that the party is conducting internal inquiries alongside the Commission's investigation, but stated he is "not aware of any other" Conservative candidates being probed. The prime minister said that he would take action based on the findings and cooperate fully with the regulators.</p>

<p>The controversy arose when one of Sunak's close aides, Craig Williams, allegedly placed a bet on a July polling day before it was announced.</p>

<h2><strong>'Huge error of judgement'</strong></h2>

<p>Williams admitted to a "huge error of judgement" but did not confirm whether he used confidential information, which could constitute a criminal offense.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-factory-fire-battery-maker-firm-apologises-for-deadly-blaze-says-it-complied-with-safety-rules-734901">South Korea factory fire: Battery firm apologises for deadly blaze, says it complied with safety rules</a></p>

<p>Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood criticised the situation as "deeply unhelpful" and called for decisive action, while Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer urged Sunak to demonstrate leadership by promptly removing the candidates.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-digital-attack-hit-indonesias-airport-public-services-crippled-by-security-breach-734966">Indonesia: Digital attack hit Indonesia's airport, public services crippled by security breach</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-digital-attack-hit-indonesias-airport-public-services-crippled-by-security-breach-734966/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The allegations have sparked widespread criticism, with Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accusing the Conservative Party of prioritising self-interest over public service during this Parliament. The controversy is seen as a "self-inflicted distraction" caused by a few individuals, according to Ellwood.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has withdrawn Conservative Party support for two parliamentary candidates who are under investigation by the Gambling Commission over allegations of betting on the date of the upcoming general election.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has withdrawn Conservative Party support for two parliamentary candidates who are under investigation by the Gambling Commission over allegations of betting on the date of the upcoming general election. The two candidates, Craig Williams from Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, and Laura Saunders from Bristol North West, are facing scrutiny, for potentially using confidential information to place bets on the election date. The Labour Party has also suspended one of its general election candidates. Kevin Craig, Labour's candidate for the Central Suffolk and North Ipswich constituency, has been "administratively" suspended by the party pending the outcome of the Gambling Commission's probe. The Conservative party said, “As a result of ongoing internal inquiries, we have concluded that we can no longer support Craig Williams or Laura Saunders as parliamentary candidates at the forthcoming general election." “We have checked with the Gambling Commission that this decision does not compromise the investigation that they are conducting, which is rightly independent and ongoing.” As the nomination process has already concluded, the two candidates will still be listed on the ballot papers as representing the Conservative Party. However, they no longer have the official backing and endorsement of the party leadership. Also Read | Brahmos missile enhances our defence, deterrent capabilities: Philippines envoy Josel Francisco Ignacio Sunak confirmed that the party is conducting internal inquiries alongside the Commission's investigation, but stated he is "not aware of any other" Conservative candidates being probed. The prime minister said that he would take action based on the findings and cooperate fully with the regulators. The controversy arose when one of Sunak's close aides, Craig Williams, allegedly placed a bet on a July polling day before it was announced. 'Huge error of judgement' Williams admitted to a "huge error of judgement" but did not confirm whether he used confidential information, which could constitute a criminal offense. Also Read | South Korea factory fire: Battery firm apologises for deadly blaze, says it complied with safety rules Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood criticised the situation as "deeply unhelpful" and called for decisive action, while Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer urged Sunak to demonstrate leadership by promptly removing the candidates. Watch | Indonesia: Digital attack hit Indonesia's airport, public services crippled by security breach × The allegations have sparked widespread criticism, with Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accusing the Conservative Party of prioritising self-interest over public service during this Parliament. The controversy is seen as a "self-inflicted distraction" caused by a few individuals, according to Ellwood. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Sunak withdraws support for Tory candidates accused of election betting

A face-off between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer got off to a terrible start for the PM with tough questions on betting scandal involving the Tories and immigration. Watch in for more details!

UK PM Sunak questioned about 'inflicting Liz Truss on Britishers'; faces heat over betting scandal

UK: Sunak, Starmer face-off ahead of July 4 elections

With Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party facing a wipeout according to the polls, there are suggestions he could even become the first sitting prime minister in history to lose his seat. Watch in for more details!

UK: Experts predict historic defeat for Tories under Rishi Sunak

UK: Sunak expected to become the first PM to lose his seat

UK: Rishi Sunak to become first sitting UK PM to lose own seat in election?

Could Rishi Sunak become the first PM to lose his seat at an election?

<p>Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported. The bash, held Thursday evening (Jun 20) at the exclusive 42-acre Hurlingham Club in London, saw the attendance of Vladimir Chernukhin, who served as Putin's deputy finance minister in the early 2000s. As per the report, his wife is a major donor of the cash-strapped Conservatives, and she has been spotted with party leaders like Theresa May and Liz Truss in the past.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Sunak blasts Putin</strong></h2>

<p>It came just days after PM Sunak blasted Putin at the Ukraine peace summit on June 15 for having “no interest in genuine peace”.</p>

<p>Ironically, the Tories had also attacked Labour Party leader Keir Starmer last week saying he may act soft towards dictators. Conservatives on X posted his picture alongside Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un, with the caption, "They’re watching.”</p>

<h2><strong>Tories having tough time raising money</strong></h2>

<p>As per available data, the Tories have raised a mere $367,000 in the second week of the election campaign. On the other hand, the Labour party has raised a whopping $5.56 million in the same period.</p>

<p>Labour meanwhile attacked the Conservatives for "taking cash from absolutely anyone now."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj55sPG4fCGAxX3a_UHHQxYDv4QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-hints-at-tough-penalties-for-young-britons-avoiding-national-military-service-733799" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-hints-at-tough-penalties-for-young-britons-avoiding-national-military-service-733799&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj55sPG4fCGAxX3a_UHHQxYDv4QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service</a></strong></p>

<p>"The cash-strapped Tories will clearly take cash from absolutely anyone now. Just as Nigel Farage reveals himself to be a Putin apologist the Tories are rolling out the red carpet to a former member of the Russian government," a Labour source was quoted as saying by the Mirror.</p>

<h2><strong>'No connection between two Vladimirs'</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Vladimir Chernukhin has rebuffed claims of him being linked to the Russian regime. "Any suggestion that Mr. and Mrs. Chernukhin have any connection to the regime of President Putin is categorically false and defamatory. Mr and Mrs Chernukhin do not support, and have never supported, the policies of President Putin. Mr. Chernukhin’s reasons for leaving Russia are well documented, where he was dismissed for his loyalty to Mikhail Kasyanov, a vocal critic of President Putin and opposition leader," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-rishi-sunak-heckled-grilled-by-angry-citizens-during-televised-election-debate-733983/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“As a British citizen, Lubov Chernukhin is entitled to make donations to political parties as she sees fit and any donation she has made, has been declared in accordance with the rules of the Electoral Commission. Mrs Chernukhin is a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin’s regime and is a staunch opponent of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” they added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported.

Days after UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin, an ex-Kremlin minister was spotted at the Tories’ summer fundraising event, the Mirror reported. The bash, held Thursday evening (Jun 20) at the exclusive 42-acre Hurlingham Club in London, saw the attendance of Vladimir Chernukhin, who served as Putin's deputy finance minister in the early 2000s. As per the report, his wife is a major donor of the cash-strapped Conservatives, and she has been spotted with party leaders like Theresa May and Liz Truss in the past. PM Sunak blasts Putin It came just days after PM Sunak blasted Putin at the Ukraine peace summit on June 15 for having “no interest in genuine peace”. Ironically, the Tories had also attacked Labour Party leader Keir Starmer last week saying he may act soft towards dictators. Conservatives on X posted his picture alongside Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un, with the caption, "They’re watching.” Tories having tough time raising money As per available data, the Tories have raised a mere $367,000 in the second week of the election campaign. On the other hand, the Labour party has raised a whopping $5.56 million in the same period. Labour meanwhile attacked the Conservatives for "taking cash from absolutely anyone now." Also read: Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service "The cash-strapped Tories will clearly take cash from absolutely anyone now. Just as Nigel Farage reveals himself to be a Putin apologist the Tories are rolling out the red carpet to a former member of the Russian government," a Labour source was quoted as saying by the Mirror. 'No connection between two Vladimirs' Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Vladimir Chernukhin has rebuffed claims of him being linked to the Russian regime. "Any suggestion that Mr. and Mrs. Chernukhin have any connection to the regime of President Putin is categorically false and defamatory. Mr and Mrs Chernukhin do not support, and have never supported, the policies of President Putin. Mr. Chernukhin’s reasons for leaving Russia are well documented, where he was dismissed for his loyalty to Mikhail Kasyanov, a vocal critic of President Putin and opposition leader," the spokesperson said. Watch: Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate × “As a British citizen, Lubov Chernukhin is entitled to make donations to political parties as she sees fit and any donation she has made, has been declared in accordance with the rules of the Electoral Commission. Mrs Chernukhin is a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin’s regime and is a staunch opponent of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Tory fundraiser attended by ex-Kremlin minister days after PM Sunak's tirade against Putin

Nigel Farage, the leader of Britain's right-wing Reform UK party has blamed the European Union and NATO for Russia's war in Ukraine saying that the Eastward expansion of the EU and NATO had provoked Moscow's Invasion. Watch in for more details!

EU, NATO expansion have Putin a reason to launch Russia-Ukraine war, says UK's Nigel Farage

With political parties in the United Kingdom out wooing the electorate, ahead of July 4th elections, a new poll suggests that while Conservative vote share is dipping.

UK's new polls show mood of nation, Labour party leading with 42% compared to Tory to 19%

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced rigorous questions from audience during a high-stakes televised debate on Thursday. During the debate, Sunak also addressed allegations that Tory insiders were betting on the election. Responding to questions, Sunak said that he was "incredibly angry" and promised to "boot out" anyone found to have broken gambling laws.

Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he was “incredibly angry” after more Conservative Party figures were put under investigation over alleged bets placed on the UK general election date. Watch in for more details!

UK: Sunak 'incredibly angry' over alleged election date betting accusations

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has hinted at potential penalties for young people who refuse to participate in national service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The leader who faces re-election, during an interview raised the possibility that youngsters in the United Kingdom might face restrictions on "driving licences, or the access to finance, all sorts of other things" if they don't comply with&nbsp;the proposed Conservative policy of compulsory national service for all 18-year-olds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a BBC Question Time Election Special, when pressed on whether this could extend to denying bank cards, Sunak responded, "There's lots of different models around Europe."</p>

<h2><strong>Why should the people trust the Conservative Party? Sunak answers</strong></h2>

<p>Guardian reports that the tone of the evening was set by the first question to Sunak, highlighting the quick turnover of five Tory prime ministers, including Liz Truss's brief tenure: "I am asking if you would confess to us tonight even just a small amount of embarrassment to be leading the Conservative party?"</p>

<p>Throughout his session, Sunak faced tough questions on why the public should trust the Conservative Party after 14 years in power.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-cards-for-indian-students-trump-proposes-citizenship-for-foreign-students-studying-in-us-733746">Green cards for Indian students? Trump proposes citizenship for foreign students studying in US</a></strong></p>

<p>Sunak urged people to judge him on his record but faced questions about why young people should trust him given the "shenanigans with the Tory party." Host Fiona Bruce noted, "There’s a bit of a theme emerging."</p>

<p>He also faced heckling with&nbsp;people shouting "shame" for refusing to commit to keeping Britain in the European Convention on Human Rights.</p>

<p>Addressing allegations of betting on the general election date, Sunak said that he was "incredibly angry" about the issue. He was further questioned on why Brexit was absent from the current Conservative manifesto, a query that drew applause from the York audience.</p>

<p>Regarding NHS waiting lists, Sunak admitted that progress was slower than desired. Sunak said that his government hasn't "made as much progress as I would like" but insisted that things were improving. However, the sceptical audience member who asked this question responded, "No," when asked if they were convinced by Sunak's answer. Another attendee, a doctor, criticised his NHS plans, commenting, "People are suffering."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-fights-back-bytedance-appeals-to-overturn-unconstitutional-potential-ban-in-us-733665">TikTok fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US, calls it 'unconstitutional'</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Pre-poll questioning</strong></h2>

<p>The&nbsp;four-party leadership BBC Question Time Election Special was held in York, northern England and also featured Labour leader Keir Starmer, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, and SNP leader John Swinney.</p>

<p>Before Sunak, Starmer faced tough questions, with one audience member highlighting "all of the backtracking on policies from Labour."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starmer defended his positions, emphasising the need for tough choices, such as deciding between reducing NHS waiting lists and removing student tuition fees.</p>

<p>On his turn, Ed Davey faced criticism over the Lib Dems' role in the 2010-15 coalition government, with one audience member accusing him of enabling "Cameron's and Osborne's austerity." Davey admitted he was "not proud" of some coalition policies and acknowledged that his party had "promised what we couldn't deliver."</p>

<p>SNP leader John Swinney was questioned about recent scandals within his party and said that he&nbsp;realised his party needed to "rebuild the trust of people in Scotland."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has hinted at potential penalties for young people who refuse to participate in national service. The leader who faces re-election, during an interview raised the possibility that youngsters in the United Kingdom might face restrictions on "driving licences, or the access to finance, all sorts of other things" if they don't comply with the proposed Conservative policy of compulsory national service for all 18-year-olds.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has hinted at potential penalties for young people who refuse to participate in national service. The leader who faces re-election, during an interview raised the possibility that youngsters in the United Kingdom might face restrictions on "driving licences, or the access to finance, all sorts of other things" if they don't comply with the proposed Conservative policy of compulsory national service for all 18-year-olds. During a BBC Question Time Election Special, when pressed on whether this could extend to denying bank cards, Sunak responded, "There's lots of different models around Europe." Why should the people trust the Conservative Party? Sunak answers Guardian reports that the tone of the evening was set by the first question to Sunak, highlighting the quick turnover of five Tory prime ministers, including Liz Truss's brief tenure: "I am asking if you would confess to us tonight even just a small amount of embarrassment to be leading the Conservative party?" Throughout his session, Sunak faced tough questions on why the public should trust the Conservative Party after 14 years in power. Also read | Green cards for Indian students? Trump proposes citizenship for foreign students studying in US Sunak urged people to judge him on his record but faced questions about why young people should trust him given the "shenanigans with the Tory party." Host Fiona Bruce noted, "There’s a bit of a theme emerging." He also faced heckling with people shouting "shame" for refusing to commit to keeping Britain in the European Convention on Human Rights. Addressing allegations of betting on the general election date, Sunak said that he was "incredibly angry" about the issue. He was further questioned on why Brexit was absent from the current Conservative manifesto, a query that drew applause from the York audience. Regarding NHS waiting lists, Sunak admitted that progress was slower than desired. Sunak said that his government hasn't "made as much progress as I would like" but insisted that things were improving. However, the sceptical audience member who asked this question responded, "No," when asked if they were convinced by Sunak's answer. Another attendee, a doctor, criticised his NHS plans, commenting, "People are suffering." Also read | TikTok fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US, calls it 'unconstitutional' Pre-poll questioning The four-party leadership BBC Question Time Election Special was held in York, northern England and also featured Labour leader Keir Starmer, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, and SNP leader John Swinney. Before Sunak, Starmer faced tough questions, with one audience member highlighting "all of the backtracking on policies from Labour." Starmer defended his positions, emphasising the need for tough choices, such as deciding between reducing NHS waiting lists and removing student tuition fees. On his turn, Ed Davey faced criticism over the Lib Dems' role in the 2010-15 coalition government, with one audience member accusing him of enabling "Cameron's and Osborne's austerity." Davey admitted he was "not proud" of some coalition policies and acknowledged that his party had "promised what we couldn't deliver." SNP leader John Swinney was questioned about recent scandals within his party and said that he realised his party needed to "rebuild the trust of people in Scotland." (With inputs from agencies)

Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service

A major Savanta poll reveals big Tory leaders, about three quarters of the present cabinet, are set to lose elections as the United Kingdom goes to polls on July 4th.

UK elections: Savanta Poll reveals big Tory leaders are set to lose elections

One of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s police bodyguards has been arrested over alleged bets on the date of Britain’s national election made before it was announced, authorities said Wednesday.

Rishi Sunak's bodyguard arrested over alleged bets on UK election date

Big Tory leaders set to lose elections: Polls | 21 of 27 members contesting elections to be routed

<p>The Bank of England kept its main interest rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent. This is a 16-year high rate days before the UK's elections. The prospect of a future rate moved closer as policymakers agreed on the overall thinking of the committee being 'finely balanced.' But more importantly, it shows that the Bank of England will remain on the sidelines until 4th July, the day of elections.</p>

<p>The BOE's monetary policy committee voted 7-2 to keep rates on hold, in line with economists' expectations. The two members who voted against holding rate cuts supported a cut to 5%.</p>

<p>This comes as the UK's inflation returned to its 2 per cent target. Commenting on the same, Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt said, 'Well, core inflation has fallen. Food inflation is now less than 2%. For families worried about the cost of living. Today's very, very good news. And just a year and a half ago we had higher inflation than nearly anywhere in the G7. Now it is lower than nearly any other major economy. That shows that the difficult decisions we've taken have paid off.'</p>

<p>Despite economist expectations, many expected an early rate cut. This can be seen in the sterling falling against the US dollar after the announcement. The BOE vote follows rate-cut announcements by the European Central Bank &amp; the Swiss National Bank. This contrasts with the US Federal Reserve's expected decision to hold on to rate cuts till September. Economists forecast the BOE to execute rate cuts a month before the Fed's expected call.</p>

<p>Irrespective, any rate cut would be too late for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak &amp; the conservative party, which is desperately looking for a boost leading up to the elections.</p>

<p>While Sunak has credited the fall in inflation to his policy reforms since he took office in October 2022, at a time when inflation was at a 41-year high, the Opposition labour party blames the glaring cost of living crisis in the UK on high mortgage rates as a result of economic mismanagement by the ruling government. The Bank of England maintains that this decision would not impact the election outcome.</p>


The Bank of England kept its main interest rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent. This is a 16-year high rate days before the UK's elections. The prospect of a future rate moved closer as policymakers agreed on the overall thinking of the committee being 'finely balanced.

The Bank of England kept its main interest rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent. This is a 16-year high rate days before the UK's elections. The prospect of a future rate moved closer as policymakers agreed on the overall thinking of the committee being 'finely balanced.' But more importantly, it shows that the Bank of England will remain on the sidelines until 4th July, the day of elections. The BOE's monetary policy committee voted 7-2 to keep rates on hold, in line with economists' expectations. The two members who voted against holding rate cuts supported a cut to 5%. This comes as the UK's inflation returned to its 2 per cent target. Commenting on the same, Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt said, 'Well, core inflation has fallen. Food inflation is now less than 2%. For families worried about the cost of living. Today's very, very good news. And just a year and a half ago we had higher inflation than nearly anywhere in the G7. Now it is lower than nearly any other major economy. That shows that the difficult decisions we've taken have paid off.' Despite economist expectations, many expected an early rate cut. This can be seen in the sterling falling against the US dollar after the announcement. The BOE vote follows rate-cut announcements by the European Central Bank & the Swiss National Bank. This contrasts with the US Federal Reserve's expected decision to hold on to rate cuts till September. Economists forecast the BOE to execute rate cuts a month before the Fed's expected call. Irrespective, any rate cut would be too late for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak & the conservative party, which is desperately looking for a boost leading up to the elections. While Sunak has credited the fall in inflation to his policy reforms since he took office in October 2022, at a time when inflation was at a 41-year high, the Opposition labour party blames the glaring cost of living crisis in the UK on high mortgage rates as a result of economic mismanagement by the ruling government. The Bank of England maintains that this decision would not impact the election outcome.

Bank of England holds rate steady at 16-year high days before UK elections

UK: Tory stalwarts set to lose in UK, Rishi Sunak to be first sitting PM in UK history to lose seat

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's election-time woes continue to mount with looming threat of a Tory washout in July elections. In the latest incident, a police officer in Sunak's close protection team has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the general election.</p>

<p>The police constable from the Met's Royalty and Specialist Protection Command was arrested on June 17. He is accused of misconduct in public office. The officer was taken into custody and granted bail pending further enquiries.</p>

<p>Earlier last week, a senior aide to Rishi Sunak admitted the betting watchdog was investigating the alleged bets he placed on the date of the general election before its actual announcement.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rishi Sunak's bodyguard arrested over alleged bets on UK election date</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rishi-sunaks-bodyguard-arrested-over-alleged-bets-on-uk-election-date-733363/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Craig Williams, who was the prime minister’s Parliamentary Private Secretary in the last Parliament, said he would cooperate with the probe.</p>

<p>Williams, a Tory candidate from Montgomeryshire &amp; Glyndwr, placed a £100 ($127) bet on a July election just three days before Sunak declared July 4 as the date, The Guardian reported.</p>

<p>A Scotland Yard spokesperson told The Independent: "We can confirm that on Friday, 14 June, the Met were contacted by the Gambling Commission who informed us that they were investigating alleged bets made by a Police Constable from the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, which were related to the timing of the general election."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a></strong></p>

<p>"The matter was immediately referred to officers in the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards, who opened an investigation, and the officer was also removed from operational duties."</p>

<p>“The officer was subsequently arrested on Monday 17 June on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries. The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct."</p>

<p>"The Gambling Commission continues to lead the investigation into the alleged betting offences, and our investigation is running in parallel to that."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's election-time woes continue to mount with looming threat of a Tory washout in July elections. In the latest incident, a police officer in Sunak's close protection team has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the general election.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's election-time woes continue to mount with looming threat of a Tory washout in July elections. In the latest incident, a police officer in Sunak's close protection team has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the general election. The police constable from the Met's Royalty and Specialist Protection Command was arrested on June 17. He is accused of misconduct in public office. The officer was taken into custody and granted bail pending further enquiries. Earlier last week, a senior aide to Rishi Sunak admitted the betting watchdog was investigating the alleged bets he placed on the date of the general election before its actual announcement. Also watch | Rishi Sunak's bodyguard arrested over alleged bets on UK election date × Craig Williams, who was the prime minister’s Parliamentary Private Secretary in the last Parliament, said he would cooperate with the probe. Williams, a Tory candidate from Montgomeryshire & Glyndwr, placed a £100 ($127) bet on a July election just three days before Sunak declared July 4 as the date, The Guardian reported. A Scotland Yard spokesperson told The Independent: "We can confirm that on Friday, 14 June, the Met were contacted by the Gambling Commission who informed us that they were investigating alleged bets made by a Police Constable from the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, which were related to the timing of the general election." Also read | Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book "The matter was immediately referred to officers in the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards, who opened an investigation, and the officer was also removed from operational duties." “The officer was subsequently arrested on Monday 17 June on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries. The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct." "The Gambling Commission continues to lead the investigation into the alleged betting offences, and our investigation is running in parallel to that." (With inputs from agencies)

Rishi Sunak's election-time woes mount as betting scandal rocks Downing Street

There was a 60% increase in Indian nationals making the dangerous English Channel crossing on small boats in 2023. Office of National Statistics' latest data, released Thursday, shows that in 2023, 1,192 Indians arrived in UK illegally on small boats.

UK Elections 2024: Immigration influx on the ballot, locals discuss pros & cons

UK PM Rishi Sunak said his predecessor Boris Johnson's endorsement for the conservatives will make a difference to the party's prospects in the upcoming general elections this.

Tories could be reduced to 115 seats: Poll | Will Boris Johnson campaign for Tories?

UK: Will Boris Johnson return to lead Conservative Party?

UK PM Sunak said his predecessor Boris Johnson's endorsement for the conservatives will make a difference to the party's prospects in the upcoming general elections this.

UK PM Sunak: Boris Johnson's endorsement for Tories will make the difference

rishi-sunak

Rishi Sunak, News on Rishi Sunak, stories on Rishi Sunak, articles on Rishi Sunak, Rishi Sunak stories at Wion, Rishi Sunak news, Rishi Sunak latest news

rishi sunak

UK PM Sunak withdraws support for Tory candidates accused of election betting

UK PM Sunak questioned about 'inflicting Liz Truss on Britishers'; faces heat over betting scandal

UK: Sunak, Starmer face-off ahead of July 4 elections

UK: Experts predict historic defeat for Tories under Rishi Sunak

UK: Sunak expected to become the first PM to lose his seat

UK: Rishi Sunak to become first sitting UK PM to lose own seat in election?

Could Rishi Sunak become the first PM to lose his seat at an election?

Tory fundraiser attended by ex-Kremlin minister days after PM Sunak's tirade against Putin

EU, NATO expansion have Putin a reason to launch Russia-Ukraine war, says UK's Nigel Farage

UK's new polls show mood of nation, Labour party leading with 42% compared to Tory to 19%

Gravitas: Rishi Sunak heckled, grilled by angry citizens during televised election debate

UK: Sunak 'incredibly angry' over alleged election date betting accusations

UK: Sunak 'incredibly angry' over alleged election date betting accusations

Sunak hints at tough penalties for young Britons avoiding National Military Service

UK elections: Savanta Poll reveals big Tory leaders are set to lose elections

Rishi Sunak's bodyguard arrested over alleged bets on UK election date

Big Tory leaders set to lose elections: Polls | 21 of 27 members contesting elections to be routed

Bank of England holds rate steady at 16-year high days before UK elections

UK: Tory stalwarts set to lose in UK, Rishi Sunak to be first sitting PM in UK history to lose seat

Rishi Sunak's election-time woes mount as betting scandal rocks Downing Street

UK Elections 2024: Immigration influx on the ballot, locals discuss pros & cons

Tories could be reduced to 115 seats: Poll | Will Boris Johnson campaign for Tories?

UK: Will Boris Johnson return to lead Conservative Party?

UK PM Sunak: Boris Johnson's endorsement for Tories will make the difference