Frazer, who was appointed culture secretary three weeks ago, said that she needs additional time to review and prepare the white paper. She did not give a specific timeline for publication.
Frazer Pays Attention to Gambling Harm Families and Industry Stakeholders
Lucy Frazer, culture secretary at Gambling with Lives Annual Parlamentary Forum, expressed her frustration over the changes in the ministerial teams that lead the government’s gambling work. However she assured attendees that the whitepaper is a top priority for her as well as prime minister Rishi Unak.
Frazer also stressed the importance of listening to a variety of stakeholders from the gambling industry as well as the families of those who have suffered gambling harm. Frazer acknowledged that gambling has devastating consequences for the loved ones of the gamblers. She expressed concern over the vulnerability of young people.
Frazer stated that she will spend the time to engage with all stakeholders to ensure she understands their perspectives before publishing the white paper.
The Review of the Gambling Act offers an opportunity to make the changes necessary to ensure that the right protections for the digital age are in place. Frazer stated that almost every aspect of gambling policy is covered and that advocates and families will have their voices heard.
Frazer acknowledged the White Paper does not represent the end of reform, and she expressed her willingness to continue discussions with attendees in order to better understand the causes of gambling harm and to find the best ways to protect the public.
Multiple Times The UK White Paper was Delay Several Times
There have been many obstacles to the release of the whitepaper on gambling regulation. The white paper on gambling regulation was originally scheduled to be released in spring 2022. However, it became uncertain after the resignations of Chris Philp and Boris Johnson.
After Liz Truss, MP, was unable publish the white paper in her short term of office, Rishi Sunak and his staff were tasked with completing the gambling review. Sunak stated that he would prioritise the gambling review and take a more creative approach, despite opposition from industry supporters.
Sunak recently reshuffled his cabinet. Paul Scully, the gambling minister, was moved to another department. Stuart Andrew was made the sixth gambling minister to take responsibility for the whitepaper since December 2020, when the UK government began its review of gambling legislation.
Gambling industry stakeholders were further frustrated by the delay in publishing the white paper.
