Industry welcomes new DCMS chief
Culture secretary Matt Hancock described as business friendly and a staunch supporter of horseracing
The gambling industry has tentatively welcomed the appointment of new DCMS head Matt Hancock, who has been described as business friendly and a staunch supporter of horseracing.
Hancock was appointed yesterday as Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, replacing Karen Bradley who was named as Northern Ireland Secretary.
He will lead the DCMS which, counts gambling and horseracing among its responsibilities, with the department currently consulting on a wide range of gambling issues, including FOBT stakes, advertising restrictions, and a possible problem gambling levy.
Tracey Crouch, who is overseeing the consultation within the DCMS, has yet to be redistributed as part of the ongoing cabinet reshuffle as of Tuesday morning.
Goodbody welcomed the appointment of Hancock, labelling him “business friendly and a known supporter of horseracing”.
The analyst firm noted: “However, we would temper people getting overly excited as: (i) there is no news yet on whether Tracey Crouch, whom is leading the gambling review at present and seen as having a negative stance towards machines, will retain her position as minister for sport and civil society; and (ii) the issue of gaming machines remains a politically sensitive decision.
“However, it is fair to say Matt Hancock’s appointment is more positive for the industry than negative.”
Hancock was instrumental in the creation of the new horseracing levy, and created legislation that required the licensing of offshore gambling operators by the Gambling Commission back in 2013.
According to Theyworkforyou.com, Hancock has also consistently voted against greater gambling regulation.
The Association of British Bookmakers also welcomed the appointment, with chairman Paul Darling saying: “[Hancock] has a full understanding of the industry and its dynamics and we look forward to working with him.”
Hancock said on Twitter: “Thrilled to become DCMS Secretary. Such an exciting agenda, so much to do, and great people. Can’t wait to get stuck in.”
Just prepping for Cabinet. Looking forward to working hard for #DigitalCultureMediaandSport pic.twitter.com/1mM2owKlTN
— Matt Hancock (@MattHancock) January 9, 2018