Ex-MP Craig Williams pleads guilty over general election betting offence

Former Conservative MP Craig Williams has pleaded guilty to cheating at gambling by placing bets on the date of the 2024 general election.

The 41-year-old was the MP for Montgomeryshire and an aide to then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak before the election was called.

Prosecutors said Williams bet £250, £100, and £22.50 on the election date.

Sunak's decision to call the poll was a surprise to many, including many Conservative MPs, who were expecting an autumn date.

When details of the scandal first emerged in June 2024, Williams admitted making a "huge error of judgment" by betting on the date of the election just days before Sunak called it.

He served as Sunak's parliamentary private secretary, which ensured he was part of the then-PM's inner circle.

Williams entered his guilty plea at a hearing at Southwark Crown Court on Monday.