The Conservative Party’s director of campaigning, Tony Lee, has “taken a leave of absence” following allegations of election betting insider knowledge. Reports indicate that Lee’s wife, Laura Saunders, is being investigated for placing a bet on the general election. Both are under investigation by the Gambling Commission.
This leaves the Conservative election campaign, already struggling with Labour holding a significant 20-point lead, without its campaign director.
The revelation has plunged the Conservative campaign into deeper crisis, with allegations targeting Rishi Sunak’s inner circle. Recently, it emerged that Craig Williams, Sunak’s parliamentary private secretary, is under investigation for placing a £100 bet on the election date just three days before Sunak called it.
Mr. Williams, is now under investigation by the Gambling Commission. Additionally, one of Mr. Williams’ close protection police officers faces inquiries over a bet on the election date. Highlighting the Tories’ campaign struggles, these insider betting allegations emerge shortly after they launched a gambling-themed attack advertisement on social media against Labour.
Unlike the two Tory candidates, the police officer has been suspended from duties. Now it has emerged that Tony Lee, one of the few privy to the election date, has stepped back from his role. While his suspension is unconfirmed, the Tories are entering the final stages of the election without a key organizational figure. Recent polls indicate the party is facing its worst electoral defeat in history, potentially leading to a complete wipeout.