Tory MP: “Now is not the time” for gambling white paper
Jack Brereton comes out swinging for industry arguing millions would be impacted if legislation were to be “rushed through haphazardly”
A Conservative MP has urged the government to once again delay the release of the white paper into the Gambling Act 2005.
Jack Brereton, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, argued that the political limbo the country now finds itself in is not a conducive environment to publish major legislation.
Writing for The House, Brereton said to “rush this now would be a mistake” and for the publication date to be held back until a new Prime Minister and cabinet are in place, which won’t be until 5 September.
Following the resignation of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the government has agreed to not announce any new legislation or policies, with a Conservative Party leadership contest ongoing to establish a new Prime Minister.
Brereton said: “However, one exception appears to be the white paper, with some still calling it for it to be published. There are very significant legislative changes and large number of new policy proposals to betting and gaming which should give ministers pause for thought.”
Touching on rumoured details set to be included in the white paper, the MP hit out at affordability checks and potential impacts on land-based casinos.
He said: “The government promised to protect punters and level up, neither of these suggestions match that ambition. If that is the case, then as with all other big decisions for government we should pause the white paper until we have a new PM and a new cabinet. Important policies impacting the lives of millions cannot be rushed through haphazardly.
Brereton said that any potential reforms would have a major impact on the industry and that extra care and thought should be put into any policy change.
He continued: “ Reforms to the betting and gaming industry will impact a hobby that people enjoy, thousands of people employed in the industry and the financial future of the many British sports that depend on this industry. And if it’s a priority for them – it should be a priority for the government.”
Bet365’headquartes lies just outside the boundary of Brereton’s constituency but he was effusive in his praise for the impact the industry has had on Stoke-on-Trent as a whole. Around 4,500 people in the city alone work in betting and gaming and it contributes £390m to the local economy.
The government faces a race against time if it plans to release the white paper before Parliament heads for its summer recess on 21 July.
Former Gambling Minister Chris Philp was one of a slew of government ministers who resigned earlier this month, but he confirmed the white paper was with Number 10 for final approval
Damian Collins has since been drafted in to replace Philp, and has since thrown his support behind Penny Mordaunt in her bid to become Prime Minister.