Russell George named in new Gambling Commission investigation

Montgomeryshire Member of the Senedd, Russell George, is also under investigation by the Gambling Commission, it has been revealed tonight.

Mr George (pictured on the right) said that he will “cooperate fully” with the Gambling Commission, just hours after issuing a statement that he would be supporting his former party colleague Craig Williams (pictured on the left), who is now running as an Independent at the General Election after the Conservatives withdrew their support.

The Gambling Commission is investigating bets placed on a July election date, with Mr Williams allegedly placing a £100 bet three days before the official announcement.

He denies that he knew of the date before placing the bet and has vowed to clear his name, but tonight’s news will again rock a Conservative party that has considered Montgomeryshire as a safe seat in both Westminster and Cardiff over the past 15 years.

Statement from Russell George MS 

“Whilst I will cooperate fully with the Gambling Commission, it would not be appropriate to comment on this independent and confidential process.

“Doing so would only jeopardise and undermine the investigation. It is the Gambling Commission, not the media, that has the responsibility, powers and resources to properly investigate these matters and determine what, if any, action should be taken.

“I have stepped back from the Shadow Cabinet while the investigation is ongoing. I have done this as I do not wish to be an unnecessary distraction to their work.

“As such I will not be providing any further public comment on this until the Gambling Commission has concluded its work.”

Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, said:

“Russell George has informed me that he has received a letter from the Gambling Commission regarding bets on the timing of the General Election.

“Russell George has stepped back from the Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet while these investigations are ongoing.

“All other Members of the Welsh Conservative Group have confirmed that they have not placed any bets.

“I will not issue further comment on this ongoing process, recognising the Gambling Commission’s instruction for confidentiality to protect the integrity of the process.”