UKGC Refuses to Detail Govt Talks on Bet Scandal
Regulator cites ongoing investigation into election betting to withhold details of communications with government or the Conservative Party.
The UKGC has used a 'neither confirm nor deny' exemption to refuse an FOI request for details on its talks with the government about the election betting scandal. The regulator confirmed an investigation is active but stated disclosure could hinder its work.
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The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has refused to confirm or deny whether it has communicated with the UK government or the Conservative Party regarding public statements on the general election betting scandal, citing the need to protect an ongoing investigation.
The response came via a Freedom of Information (FOI) request dated 23 June 2024, which asked for records of any such communications since the beginning of May.
Context: Protecting Market Integrity
The FOI request was made amid a high-profile scandal involving allegations that individuals with political connections placed bets on the timing of the general election, potentially using privileged information. For consumers, such actions raise serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the betting market. A core part of the UKGC's remit is to ensure gambling is conducted in a fair and open way, and the use of inside information directly undermines this principle.
Details of the Refusal
In its response, the UKGC invoked Section 30(3) of the Freedom of Information Act, a “neither confirm nor deny” (NCND) exemption used to protect information related to investigations and proceedings.
The regulator stated that confirming or denying the existence of such communications could “alert individuals involved” and give them an “opportunity to alter their behaviours or evade detection.”
The Commission acknowledged the public interest in transparency but concluded that protecting the integrity of its regulatory work was paramount. It argued that disclosure could be “damaging to the Commission as a regulatory body” and could prejudice the outcome of its work.
Despite the refusal, the UKGC made one significant confirmation:
“Whilst we are able to confirm that 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.”
Significance for Consumers
The UKGC’s use of this powerful legal exemption underscores the serious and active nature of its investigation into the betting scandal. While the refusal limits immediate transparency, it is a standard procedure for regulators and law enforcement to avoid compromising a live inquiry.
For consumers, this indicates that the regulatory process is in motion. The decision suggests that the public will likely have to wait until the investigation concludes for a full picture of any communications between the regulator and political entities. The UKGC noted that if a formal decision is made as a result of its investigation, it will “ordinarily publish all such information in full.” This provides some assurance that the findings will eventually be made public, holding the industry and its participants to account.