UK

Labour Calls for Probe into Unlicensed Gambling Firms Linked

August 20, 2026
Priya Patel

Labour party chair Bridget Phillipson has formally urged the UK Gambling Commission to investigate allegations that two companies linked to Reform UK donors operated gambling services without proper licences, raising potential risks for UK consumers.

The companies under scrutiny are Tether.bet, a Montenegro-based gambling operator, and Fispay Ltd, a UK firm owned by Mowbray Jackson, Reform UK’s data protection officer. Both firms have been reported by the Sunday Times as operating without the required UK gambling licences, which is illegal under the Gambling Act 2005.

For players and bettors in the UK, unlicensed operators pose significant risks. Without regulation, there is no guarantee of fair play, secure payments, or responsible gambling safeguards. Consumers using such platforms may face difficulties in dispute resolution, withdrawal of funds, or protection from harmful gambling practices.

Tether.bet recently closed its website, redirecting users to another platform, NNVIP88, which raises concerns about player access and continuity of funds. The involvement of high-profile figures linked to Reform UK, including crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne and George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster and ally of Nigel Farage, has intensified scrutiny.

In her letter to the Gambling Commission, Phillipson requested investigation into whether these companies provided or advertised remote gambling facilities to UK consumers without licences. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, stating “These are the latest allegations in a mountain of unanswered questions concerning Reform’s donors and finances.”

Fispay’s owner has denied providing gambling services, claiming the company only brokers private jet travel. Meanwhile, Cottrell has stated he was merely a customer of Tether.bet and “never solicited clients for any betting company.” Despite these denials, the Gambling Commission’s investigation will be crucial for ensuring that UK players are protected from unregulated gambling activities.

Players should remain cautious about engaging with operators that lack a UK licence. Licensed operators must comply with strict rules on player protection, including measures to prevent gambling harm, secure handling of player funds, and transparent terms and conditions.

This development highlights ongoing challenges in policing the online gambling market, especially with offshore operators targeting UK consumers. The Gambling Commission’s response will be closely watched by players and consumer groups concerned about the integrity and safety of the gambling environment.

Labour’s call for investigation follows reports that Tether.bet’s closure notice appeared on 12 August, with users redirected to NNVIP88, a move that may complicate players’ ability to access funds or lodge complaints. The Gambling Commission’s role includes ensuring operators meet licensing requirements to protect consumers from such risks.

Christopher Harborne, who donated £5 million to Nigel Farage, is already under scrutiny by the parliamentary commissioner for standards. His company, IFX, reportedly processed payments for gambling firms, though representatives claim it operates within regulatory frameworks. George Cottrell’s lawyers have emphasized his limited involvement, stating his relationship with Tether.bet is “limited to that of a customer, in addition to which, he knows and is friends with the owner.”

Players interested in UK betting regulations and consumer protections can explore more at GamblingNews.today UK section and on player protection. For official guidance, visit the Gambling Commission website.

Further details on this investigation can be found in the original Guardian report and related coverage at SBC News.

Source: Gambling | The Guardian.

Priya Patel
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