Windsor
Windsor's Tory MP accepts Racecourse Freebies before debate
Jack Rankin's Free Racecourse Tickets Raise Ethical Eyebrows Amid Parliamentary Debate on Gambling Laws
12 Feb 2025
Racing Industry Cash Raises Ethics Concerns for Rankin
CAT
18 Feb 2025
Jack Rankin MP’s judgment is in question after accepting lavish hospitality from local racecourses just days before speaking in Parliament on horse racing. This raises serious concerns about transparency and ethical standards in public office.
On October 19, 2024, Mr. Rankin received tickets and hospitality worth £675 from Ascot Racecourse. Five days later, on October 24, he spoke in a parliamentary debate advocating for reduced restrictions on the racing industry. Then, on January 8, 2025, he accepted another £312 in hospitality from Royal Windsor Racecourse. To make matters worse, Rankin's campaign also received a £10,000 donation from Fitri and James Hay, prominent racehorse owners and influential figures in the racing industry, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.
Rather than addressing these legitimate concerns, Mr. Rankin has attempted to dismiss them as an "attempt to skew his motives." This response fails to acknowledge the real issue: the importance of transparency and integrity in public office. Pointing the finger at critics does not change the fact that he accepted financial support and hospitality from those with a vested interest in the parliamentary decisions he was debating. The public should expect their MP to answer these concerns directly, not simply dismiss them.
While he insists he is "proud to champion" these racecourses, accepting valuable gifts and donations from organizations that could benefit from his advocacy raises ethical concerns. It undermines public trust and raises questions about whose interests he truly serves—his constituents or his financial backers?
This isn’t the first time a Windsor Conservative MP has faced controversy. His predecessor, Adam Afriyie, was criticised over his handling of personal finances and disengagement from constituents. He also faced scrutiny for failing to declare his wife's financial interest in a vaping company while speaking in Parliament in favour of the industry, Before him, Michael Trend was found to have wrongly claimed over £90,000 in expenses. Residents will no doubt watch closely to see whether a pattern is forming.
The Liberal Democrats demand higher ethical standards in politics. The Conservatives seem to believe they can operate by a different set of rules, but the public deserves better.
I call on Mr. Rankin to explain himself, commit to full transparency over his financial interests, and ensure his constituents, not wealthy donors, are his priority. Returning the £10k donation might be a good place to start.
Cllr Amy Tisi
Windsor Liberal Democrats
Related Articles