Up to five people – possibly including a politician – could face prosecution in the betting scandal over the date of the general election, Sky News can reveal.

A source has told Sky News: “The Gambling Commission is looking to prosecute at least three suspects, but possibly up to five. This includes a politician and a close protection guard.”

It is understood that the commission is not yet at the point of making an announcement and a spokesperson said the commission would not comment on an ongoing investigation.

“We clearly appreciate the level of public interest there is in this ongoing investigation,” a commission spokesperson told Sky News.