In a reshuffle led by British opposition leader Keir starmer, Thangam Debbonaire, a Bristol West MP, was appointed shadow secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, as well as the Minister responsible for gambling.
In the aftermath of the previous Government’s gambling reforms, Debbonaire would be the new culture minister if the Labour Party wins the next general elections.
The new culture minister said on X that she was “thrilled” to be taking on such an exciting role. “As a musician, I understand the importance of these sectors for people’s jobs, lives and our economy.
“Labour governments [sic] have always supported Britain’s leading culture, media, and sport.” “Looking forward to working with all involved.”
Shadow Culture Minister to Take Gambling Brief
The department, sometimes called the “Ministry of Fun”, is responsible for governing UK culture, sport and broadcasting as well as tourism, leisure, and tourism.
Gambling is also a part of its mandate. Since 2020 CMS and its predecessor DMCS have played a major role in reviewing the UK gambling laws.
Alex Davies-Jones, MP for Pontypridd and shadow minister of tech, gambling and digital economy, will report directly to Debbonaire in the role of junior minister. Davies-Jones holds the position of junior minister since December 2021.
White paper implementation postponed until after the election
Following the publication of the white paper on the Gambling Act Review there were some concerns raised about the number provisions that had been put forward for consultation.
The Gambling Commission stated that it would like to complete all consultations before summer 2024. This is before the deadline for the next general elections in January 2025.
Elections can be called earlier than this date. If the Labour Party is able to form the government and Debbonaire becomes the culture minister, he may be tasked with implementing the white paper in its final stages.
