Tory head of information below investigation over ‘dozens of bets’ on election date

A Senior Tory official is being investigated by the Gambling Commission over claims he placed dozens of bets on the timing of the election before Rishi Sunak announced it.

Nick Mason, the party’s chief data officer has been told he’s part of the investigation engulfing Mr Sunak’s already beleaguered party. The Tories told the Sunday Times Mr Mason has taken a leave of absence from his role.

Last week Tony Lee, the party’s campaign director also took a leave of absence after it was revealed he and wife Laura Saunders – a Tory candidate in Bristol North West – were also under investigation. And a week earlier, Craig Williams – one of Mr Sunak’s most senior parliamentary aides – was under investigation over a bet on the timing of the election.

A police officer and member of Mr Sunak’s close protection team was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office after he too faced a similar allegation.

The gambling watchdog is investigating Mr Mason over claims he made dozens of small bets, of less than £100. According to the Sunday Times, Mr Mason stood to win thousands of pounds across all the bets.

A spokesperson for Mr Mason denied wrongdoing to the Times, but declined to comment during the investigation. It’s also claimed dozens more people are being looked at in a “second wave” – who may be contacts or friends of people already under investigation.

A Conservative Party spokesman said: “As instructed by the Gambling Commission, we are not permitted to discuss any matters related to any investigation with the subject or any other persons.”

The Gambling Commission said: “Currently the commission is investigating the possibility of offences concerning the date of the election. This is an ongoing investigation, and the commission cannot provide any further details at this time.

“We are not confirming or denying the identity of any individuals involved in this investigation.”