The Gambling Commission has been urged to investigate companies linked to Reform UK donors and allies of Nigel Farage, following allegations of unlicensed gambling operations. Labour's chair, Bridget Phillipson, has formally written to the watchdog, demanding a probe into Tether.bet and Fispay Ltd. This development adds to the mounting scrutiny over Reform UK's finances and its connections to controversial figures.
Background: The Allegations Against Tether.bet and Fispay
According to a Sunday Times investigation, Tether.bet, a Montenegro-based gambling company, and Fispay, a UK firm owned by Reform's data protection officer Mowbray Jackson, have been operating without the necessary licences. The Gambling Act 2005 makes it illegal to provide gambling facilities without a licence in the UK. Labour's letter specifically asks the commission to examine whether these companies provided or advertised remote gambling services to UK consumers without proper authorisation.
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Key Figures Involved
The controversy extends to crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne, whose £5m gift to Farage is already under review by the parliamentary commissioner for standards. Additionally, George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster and long-term Farage ally, is linked to Tether.bet. The website issued a closure notice on 12 August, but the allegations have already sparked political fallout.
Labour's Demands and Political Implications
In her letter, Phillipson wrote: "In light of these allegations, I would urge the commission to investigate: Whether Tether.bet, and its operators, provided or advertised remote gambling facilities to consumers in UK without the required licence; Whether Fispay Ltd, or any other UK company, provided or supported gambling facilities or services to consumers in the UK without the required licence." She added that these are "the latest allegations in a mountain of unanswered questions concerning Reform's donors and finances," and that "Nigel Farage cannot dodge them for ever."
Responses from the Accused
Jackson told the Sunday Times that his company "exclusively" brokered private jet travel and had never provided facilities for gambling. Cottrell claimed he was merely a customer of Tether.bet and has "never solicited clients for any betting company." Despite these denials, the pressure on Reform UK continues to build.
Comparison: Tether.bet vs. Fispay
| Company | Owner/Associate | Allegation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tether.bet | George Cottrell (linked) | Operating unlicensed gambling in UK | Closure notice issued |
| Fispay Ltd | Mowbray Jackson | Providing/supporting unlicensed gambling | Denies any gambling activity |
Key Takeaways
- Labour has formally requested a Gambling Commission investigation into Reform UK donor-linked firms.
- Tether.bet and Fispay are accused of operating without UK gambling licences.
- Christopher Harborne's £5m donation to Nigel Farage is already under scrutiny.
- Both companies deny any wrongdoing, but the political pressure is intensifying.
FAQ
What is the Gambling Commission's role in this investigation?
The Gambling Commission is the regulatory body for gambling in the UK. It has the authority to investigate and take action against companies operating without a licence, as required under the Gambling Act 2005.
Who is George Cottrell and why is he relevant?
George Cottrell is a convicted fraudster and long-term ally of Nigel Farage. He is linked to Tether.bet, the gambling company at the centre of the allegations, though he claims he was only a customer.
What are the potential consequences for Reform UK?
If the allegations are proven, it could further damage Reform UK's credibility and lead to legal action against the companies involved. It also raises questions about the party's donor vetting processes and financial transparency.
As the Gambling Commission considers Labour's request, the political and legal ramifications could be significant. For now, all eyes remain on Nigel Farage and his party's response to these serious allegations.
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