Baroness Twycross, the UK’s Minister for Gambling, has provided the clearest signal yet that gambling reform plans outlined in the White Paper will soon be implemented. Speaking at the Labour Party Conference, she emphasized that the long-anticipated changes would not face extended delays, with the aim to introduce them in the coming months.
Cross-Party Support and Urgency for Reform
Baroness Twycross highlighted that the White Paper had strong cross-party backing before being delayed by the snap general election. She reiterated Labour’s stance on gambling, noting: “In opposition we (the Labour Party) were broadly supportive of the Gambling White Paper… most people who gamble do so safely, but we absolutely believe that we need to strengthen protections to protect those that are at risk of gambling addiction and harmful gambling.”
During the conference, she acknowledged the frustrations of those waiting for reform, assuring that progress would not be stalled. Twycross added, “This will not be years of conversation before we start outlining the direction of travel, that this is something that is my absolute priority as a new Government Minister.”
The announcement was met positively by industry representatives, including Bacta’s Executive Director for Government Relations, George McGregor, who attended the conference alongside Bacta President John Bollom. McGregor was encouraged by Twycross’ clear timeline, stating, “Her reference points in terms of the timetable for implementation were weeks and months… we have a Minister who is both pragmatic and proportionate.”
McGregor expressed confidence that Bacta’s contributions to the White Paper, which focus on evidence-based approaches to safer gambling, would resonate with the Minister. He also expressed optimism about an upcoming meeting with Baroness Twycross, scheduled for 3 October, to further discuss their role in supporting the government’s growth agenda.
With the Minister’s firm commitment to moving forward, the gambling industry is expected to see tangible changes in the coming months, focusing on enhanced protections for vulnerable gamblers while allowing the sector to continue contributing to the economy.
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