The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) announced this Wednesday, August 12, that it hopes to work constructively with MP Vicky Foxcroft, who was appointed minister responsible for Gambling in the United Kingdom.
In a statement, the council praised the new minister's previous support for balanced, evidence-based regulation that protects children and young people and allows adults to gamble safely. The BGC also highlighted Foxcroft's backing for regulation that is properly targeted and fit for purpose.
The organization thanked her predecessor, Baroness Fiona Twycross, for her service. During her tenure, Twycross visited BGC members in Stoke-on-Trent, Leeds, Liverpool and London and attended the council's annual general meeting, where she recognized the sector's contribution to employment, tourism and local economies.
Industry defends proportionate regulation
BGC executive director Grainne Hurst said she hopes to work with the new minister to advocate for Great Britain's casinos, betting shops and online betting, gaming and bingo companies. According to Hurst, the industry sustains 109,000 jobs, contributes billions of pounds to the economy and finances sports such as horse racing, football, darts, snooker and rugby league.
Hurst also said that, following the Gambling White Paper, future policy should be evidence-based, proportionate and consider the cumulative impact of regulation and tax increases on employment and competitiveness. She also called for tackling the black market of illegal gambling, which she described as fast-growing and making no contribution to the British economy or sport.
The BGC said the regulated betting and gaming industry generates 6.8 billion pounds in gross value added and 4 billion pounds in tax per year. The council said it will work with the new minister to protect consumers, support employment and investment and address the threat of illegal operators.
