Seven officers under investigation over election bets

The number of Metropolitan Police officers under investigation over bets on the timing of the general election has risen to at least seven, the force has confirmed.

A royalty and specialist protection officer arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office remains on bail and is subject to restricted duties while a further six officers have been identified as having placed bets on the timing of the 4 July election so far, the Met said on Thursday.

Scotland Yard had previously indicated that six officers were under investigation.

The head of the Gambling Commission, which is leading an investigation alongside the Met, said they would not confirm the names of those under suspicion to "protect the integrity of the investigation".

The latest statement from the force and Gambling Commission suggests that where there is suspicion of cheating alone, the betting watchdog will investigate.

However, where there is a suspicion of an additional offence - such as misconduct in public office - then the Met's specialist crime command will be brought in to investigate.

It is understood that the number of cases the Met may take the lead on is "very small".

The definition of who is a public officer includes police constables, elected officials such as MPs, councillors, ministers and mayors, and civil servants.

Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin said: "We have agreed a joint approach with the Gambling Commission, who are the appropriate authority to investigate the majority of these allegations.

"There will, however, be a small number of cases where a broader criminal investigation by the police is required."

Gambling Commission chief executive Andrew Rhodes said: "We are focused on an investigation into confidential information being used to gain an unfair advantage when betting on the date of the General Election.

"Our enforcement team has made rapid progress so far and will continue to work closely with the Metropolitan Police to draw this case to a just conclusion.

"We understand the desire for information; however, to protect the integrity of the investigation and to ensure a fair and just outcome, we are unable to comment further at this time, including the name of any person who may be under suspicion."

On Tuesday, the Conservatives withdrew their support from two of their election candidates under investigation. Labour suspended one of its candidates who is also being investigated, after allegedly betting he would lose his constituency battle.

A Conservative politician in the Welsh Parliament is also facing inquiries by the regulator and has "stepped back" from his frontbench role.

BBC Newsnight understands that as many as 15 Conservative Party candidates and officials are being scrutinised by the commission.