BGC Highlights the Importance of Evidence-Led Regulation and Pays Tribute to Outgoing Minister Baroness Fiona Twycross
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has issued formal congratulations to Vicky Foxcroft MP following her appointment as the new Minister responsible for gambling, expressing eagerness to work together constructively. The BGC praised Foxcroft’s historical support for a balanced, evidence-led regulatory approach that safeguards vulnerable demographics, particularly children and young people, while permitting adults to gamble safely. Additionally, the council noted her backing for fit-for-purpose, properly targeted regulation.
At the same time, the BGC paid tribute to outgoing Gambling Minister Baroness Fiona Twycross, thanking her for open and constructive engagement during her tenure. Baroness Twycross previously visited BGC member venues across London, Liverpool, Leeds, and Stoke-on-Trent to observe safer gambling measures and the industry’s economic contributions firsthand, alongside regularly attending the BGC AGM.
Industry Priorities and Economic Impact
Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive of the Betting and Gaming Council, emphasized the sector’s vital role and future policy goals:
“I would like to congratulate Vicky Foxcroft MP on her appointment as Minister responsible for gambling. We look forward to working with her to champion Britain’s casinos, betting shops and online betting, gaming and bingo businesses – an industry that brings enjoyment to millions of people, sustains 109,000 jobs, contributes billions of pounds to the economy and provides vital funding for some of Britain’s best-loved sports.”
Hurst further stressed the necessity for future policy to remain proportionate and evidence-led following the changes introduced via the Gambling White Paper, taking into account the cumulative effects of recent tax increases and regulations on investment and jobs. The BGC also aims to collaborate with the new Minister to combat the growing illegal gambling black market, which threatens consumers and bypasses contributions to the economy and British sport.
The regulated betting and gaming sector currently sustains 109,000 jobs, contributes £6.8 billion in gross value added to the British economy, and generates £4 billion in annual tax revenue while funding sports such as horse racing, football, snooker, darts, and rugby league.
