Within MetroTalk, readers engage in a conversation about a betting controversy involving two Tory candidates, an assistant, and a member of the security team, all currently under scrutiny for placing bets on the election.
One commenter points out a recurring theme and questions if this incident may lead to further troubles for the Conservative party.
Meanwhile, is it time to focus on the alignment among Russia, North Korea, China, and Iran? Readers also express their support for Southgate.
Feel free to share your viewpoints on these matters and more in the comments section.
Reflecting on Marx…
‘History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.’ In the current context, Karl Marx’s statement appears highly relevant. This pertains to a) the 2019 ‘Brexit Election’ and b) notably, in light of the recent betting controversy, the one arising on July 4. Andrew McLuskey, through email
Questionable Tory wagers
Is there no end to Tory avarice? Following the investigation of Tory adviser Craig Williams for dubious election date betting, the Tory campaign director, Tony Lee, has taken a leave of absence with two weeks remaining until the election (Metro, Friday).
Reportedly, his wife, Laura Saunders, who is a candidate in Bristol North West, is also being probed by the gambling commission for questionable betting practices. Are they unaware that gambling markets are closely monitored for illegal activities? Robert Boston, Kent
The Tory betting debacle (MetroTalk, Friday) signifies another setback for the party. Who would call an election when their party has trailed by 20 points in the polls for two years? The answer is: Rishi Sunak! Scott, West London
The uproar over bets placed on the election date is actually about bookmakers being permitted to accept bets on events influenced by individuals rather than random chance. These same bookmakers are unjustly allowed to limit the stakes of winning bettors or ban them altogether – so where is the scandal, one may ask? Nick, Luton
England supporters overlook the positives
Being an England player is no easy task. Scotland faced a loss in their first game and a draw in the second, yet their fans remained supportive without criticism. In contrast, England secured a victory in their initial match and a draw in the next, only to be booed by their supporters and lambasted by media and commentators. Despite securing their spot in the next round, shouldn’t they focus on the positives?
Most fans in stadiums cheer on their teams, irrespective of victory or defeat, yet some England fans seem to handle things differently. Offering encouragement even during challenging times might provide the motivation needed to move forward. Corin, London
I strongly oppose Andree’s perspective that Gareth Southgate is an inadequate England coach (Metro, Thursday). Instead of criticism, we should be praising him.
I cannot recall any England manager in my lifetime who has led an English team that has continually performed competitively across multiple tournaments.
