UK

Labour Calls for Probe into Unlicensed Gambling Firms Linked

August 19, 2026
Priya Patel

The Labour party has formally requested the UK Gambling Commission to investigate allegations that two companies linked to Reform UK donors operated gambling services without the required licences.

The companies under scrutiny are Tether.bet, a Montenegro-based gambling operator, and Fispay Ltd, a UK company owned by Mowbray Jackson, Reform UK’s data protection officer. Labour’s chair, Bridget Phillipson, called on the Gambling Commission to examine whether these firms provided or supported remote gambling facilities to UK consumers without the necessary licences.

Operating gambling services without a licence is illegal under the UK Gambling Act 2005. This law requires all operators offering gambling to UK consumers to hold a valid licence from the Gambling Commission. Licensed operators must comply with strict rules on player protection, responsible gambling, and financial security. Unlicensed operators do not offer these safeguards, which can expose players to unfair practices, unresolved disputes, and potential financial loss.

Tether.bet’s website displayed a closure notice on 12 August, indicating it may have ceased operations amid the allegations. The company has been linked to George Cottrell, a convicted fraudster and long-term ally of Nigel Farage. Cottrell’s lawyers stated his involvement was limited to being a customer and a friend of the owner, adding he has “never solicited clients for any betting company.”

Fispay Ltd, meanwhile, has denied involvement in gambling services, with Jackson telling the Sunday Times that the company “exclusively” brokers private jet travel and has never provided gambling facilities.

Phillipson’s letter to the Gambling Commission emphasized the need for clarity and accountability, stating: “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 also highlighted concerns about the links between Reform UK donors and gambling businesses, urging transparency.

The investigation follows reports by the Sunday Times revealing that both companies operated without licences. The newspaper noted that Christopher Harborne, a crypto billionaire and Reform UK donor, made a £5 million gift to Nigel Farage, which is under scrutiny by the parliamentary commissioner for standards. Harborne owns IFX, a company involved in processing payments for gambling operations, though representatives said IFX “operates in accordance with applicable regulations and legislation across the markets it supports.”

For players, this situation reinforces the importance of verifying that gambling sites hold valid UK licences before engaging. Using unlicensed operators increases risks, including lack of consumer protections and potential financial harm. The Gambling Commission continues to enforce licensing rules and take action against illegal operators to protect consumers.

Those concerned about gambling harm should seek support from licensed operators and access resources available through responsible gambling initiatives. For more information on UK gambling regulation and player protection, visit GamblingNews.today UK and Player Protection.

Additional recent developments in UK gambling regulation include a £150,000 fine imposed on a high street slot venue for failing to offer a self-exclusion scheme, highlighting ongoing regulatory enforcement efforts (SBC News).

Source: Gambling | The Guardian.

Priya Patel
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