A protection officer working for Britain’s prime minister, Rishi Sunak, was arrested over allegations he had made bets on the timing of the country’s general election, which was recently called months earlier than had been expected, the police said on Wednesday.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police, the force that covers London, said the officer had been removed from operational duties and had been arrested on Monday “on suspicion of misconduct in public office.” The force added that the officer, who was not identified by name, was free on bail “pending further enquiries.”News of the arrest came a week after Craig Williams, a Conservative lawmaker and parliamentary aide to Mr. Sunak, apologized after having placed a bet on the timing of the election before the date of July 4 was officially announced.
“I put a flutter on the general election some weeks ago,” Mr. Williams, who is running for re-election in the July 4 vote, wrote on social media.
He noted that the Gambling Commission, which oversees the betting industry in Britain, was making inquiries.
“I confirm I will fully cooperate with these,” he said.
Persons:
Rishi Sunak, Craig Williams, Sunak, “, Mr, Williams, ”
Organizations:
Metropolitan Police, ”, Conservative, Gambling Commission
Locations:
London, Britain