Several figures in the UK's ruling Conservative Party are under investigation over allegedly placing bets on an early general election announcement.
The background: The party's campaign director has taken a leave of absence, linked to an investigation by Britain's gambling regulator.
One candidate has apologised for placing a bet on the timing of the election, while another is being investigated over allegations they may have attempted to profit from their political knowledge of the timing of the election.
The key quote: "I was incredibly angry to learn of these allegations. If anyone is found to have broken the rules, not only should they face the full consequences of the law, I will make sure that they are booted out of the Conservative Party." — UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak
What else to know: Polls indicate the UK is on course to elect a centre-left Labour government led by Keir Starmer, ending 14 years of Conservative Party rule.
What happens next: The UK will vote for its next government on 4 July, with some polls suggesting Sunak's party could be heading for a historic defeat.
