Tory councillor suspended after betting charge

Herefordshire's ruling Conservative group has confirmed one of its councillors, Nick Mason, is stepping away from the group following a charge against him of illegal political betting.

Mason, who represents Weobley ward, was previously the national party's chief data officer.

The Gambling Commission said on Monday it had charged him along with 14 others following an investigation into bets placed on the timing of the 2024 general election.

It said its investigation focused on individuals "suspected of using confidential information – specifically advance knowledge of the proposed election date – to gain an unfair advantage in betting markets".

Spokesman for the minority ruling Conservative group on Herefordshire Council, councillor Dan Hurcomb, said that Mason contacted them on Monday "to confirm that he will be voluntarily suspending his membership of the Conservative group on Herefordshire Council whilst formal legal proceedings are ongoing".

Hurcomb said: "Nick remains a councillor and will continue to serve his residents as an independent."

All 15 suspects are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 13 June.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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