Powys MS also under investigation by the Gambling Commission

Mr George, the Senedd Member for Montgomeryshire, is a close ally of Craig Williams who has lost the support of the Conservative party in the upcoming general election having been also put under investigation by the Gambling Commission for allegedly betting on the date of the election with prior knowledge.

Reports now are claiming Mr George is also under investigation for allegedly for betting on the date of the election.

Mr George said he would “co-operate fully” with the inquiry.

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In a statement, he said it was “the Gambling Commission, not the media” that has the responsibility and powers to properly probe the matter, and that he would not be commenting further.

“Whilst I will co-operate fully with the Gambling Commission, it would not be appropriate to comment on this independent and confidential process,” said Mr George.

“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.”

Earlier today Mr George had thrown his backing behind Mr Williams despite him losing the support of the Conservative party and said “It may seem old fashioned, but I believe in innocent until proven guilty.”

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies 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.”