Blackpool MP Scott Benton's five gifts from the gambling industry as Tories suspend him after lobbying sting operation
The relationship between gambling and politics has become cosier and cosier in recent years as the betting industry holds its breath on tougher regulations from central government.
In a meeting with the undercover reporters, it is alleged Mr Benton - who is also the chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Betting and Gaming - was prepared to leak market sensitive information to the investment fund and ask parliamentary questions on its behalf, in direct breach of parliamentary lobbying rules. The Times also claims Mr Benton was ready to leak the abovementioned white paper at least 48 hours before it went public.
Mr Benton's relationship with gambling has been close during the time in which £225,000 was paid to MPs. The MP has benefitted from numerous free tickets to watch football matches. Among them include tickets to watch England vs Denmark, valued at £3,457. Official parliamentary records also show Mr Benton secured a parliamentary pass for a Mr Stephen Donoughue, a member of staff from the business Gambling Consultant. Mr Donoughue's LinkedIn page boasts of his "unparalleled knowledge" of the gambling industry.
"Betting shops employ thousands of people across the UK and are a key driving force to get people out on their high streets," he says in the footage, "spending money in local shops and businesses as well." A spokesperson for Tory Chief Whip Simon Hart said on Wednesday night: “Following his self-referral to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards earlier this evening, Scott Benton has had the Conservative Party Whip suspended whilst an investigation is ongoing.”
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