Gambling row widens

HOME Secretary James Cleverly yesterday said he had no reason to believe that ministers had placed bets on the timing of the General Election, as the Conservative Party's campaign was hit by further gambling allegations.

The Tories have been plunged into a deeper crisis as the party's chief data officer, Nick Mason, took a leave of absence, amid claims he placed bets on the election timing. Director of campaigning Tony Lee has also stepped back from his role with the party.

The loss of two senior figures at a time when Labour's poll lead over the Tories remains stubbornly around 20 points has given Prime Minister Rishi Sunak a further headache in the closing stages of the campaign.

Asked by the BBC if any ministers had put a bet on the timing of the election, Mr Cleverly replied: "Not to my knowledge."