BACTA Alerts Members to Possible Policy Shifts Amid Impending UK Government Transition

Attendees at the Bacta meeting were informed that the amusement and arcade industry has no reason to fear Labour in the event of a government shift in the UK. Bacta Executive Director George McGregor emphasized that a decision on the gambling white paper is imminent, with the organization advocating for a review of stakes and prizes. McGregor also stressed the importance of relationship-building with candidates ahead of the election to influence industry decisions, highlighting the vulnerability of new governments to press campaigns. However, historically, new governments have shown less interest in gambling during their first terms, with Elizabeth Speed noting that they should be wary of campaigning entities.

Bacta Informs Members of Potential Policy Changes Amidst Impending UK Government Shift

During a recent meeting organized by the British Amusement and Catering Trade Association (Bacta), industry professionals were apprised of the potential implications for the amusement and arcade sector in the event of a shift in the UK government.

George McGregor, Bacta's Executive Director of Government Relations, Regulatory Affairs, and Communications, addressed attendees, indicating that a decision regarding the government's gambling white paper was imminent. "We expect it to be released as soon as next week," McGregor stated.

He emphasized Bacta's ongoing advocacy for a comprehensive review of stakes and prizes, underscoring that this issue was raised in every consultation with government officials.

McGregor highlighted the likelihood of a government change and its potential impact on the industry. "Many Members of Parliament may leave their positions in October or November, leading to a significant influx of new faces," he explained. "The key to effective government relations lies in establishing connections with prospective candidates at an early stage."

He encouraged operators to schedule meetings with candidates prior to the election to introduce them to the industry and foster positive relationships. Bacta, he added, stands ready to assist members in facilitating introductions to local candidates.

John Bollom, Bacta's President, cautioned that new governments are often receptive to media campaigns, with unpredictable consequences for the industry. "We must remain vigilant," he asserted, acknowledging that past experience suggests that gambling is typically not a priority for newly elected administrations during their first term in office. "Historically, these issues tend to emerge during the second or third term," Bollom noted.

Despite this observation, Bollom expressed optimism regarding the industry's past record under Labour governments. "We have fared better under past Labour administrations, resulting in increased financial returns," he remarked.

Elizabeth Speed, General Counsel for Novomatic UK, emphasized the industry's concerns about potential campaign entities that could mobilize against the sector.

Bollom also highlighted the potential sympathy for Category C machines in pubs, given the ongoing closures of such establishments. "Anything that can help pubs remain open will receive support," he said. Similarly, crane and redemption machines were viewed favorably.

However, Bollom cautioned that any government decisions would require statutory instruments, a process that typically takes six weeks to complete. As such, the industry still has some time to prepare.

He concluded by warning that should an election occur before the completion of these processes, all progress could be reversed, necessitating a complete restart of the efforts.