Ex-MP faces two-year wait for betting offences trial

Former Conservative MP Craig Williams, along with 14 co-defendants, faces a two-year wait for trial after being charged with betting offences related to the 2024 election. Williams, a former MP for Montgomeryshire and Cardiff North, appeared at Southwark Crown Court and did not indicate a plea. The defendants are accused of placing bets using confidential information gained from Downing Street and Conservative campaign headquarters. The trial is scheduled for 2027 and 2028, with Williams set to appear in the latter.