Lisa Nandy, the UK’s new head of the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport, has reiterated the British government’s desire to grow gaming responsibly. According to her, the government is committed to striking the right balance between a thriving industry and problem gambling support.
Nandy Wants UK Gambling to Thrive
In the Commons, MP Jim Dickson inquired whether the industry is implementing the RET levy outlined in the white paper. Nandy responded that the government is currently evaluating the available evidence in order to allow the industry to grow while still finding treatment.
Her desire to help the industry thrive was echoed by shadow culture minister Dr Luke Evans. He referred to the recent tax hike rumors, which shook the British gambling industry, causing operator’s share prices to plummet and warned that they may cause businesses to struggle and cut jobs. Evans mirrored Nandy’s desire to allow the industry to thrive while still shielding vulnerable players from harm.
For context, recent reports suggested that the Treasury is planning to raise the gambling taxes in the UK in order to raise an additional £3 billion. When asked whether she supports the tax hike or the industry, Nandy reiterated her desire to strike the right balance.
Nandy acknowledged the problems that gambling addiction could cause but also noted that the DCMS as a whole is aware of the industry’s value and its importance to the economy and the people. She pointed out that gambling brings joy to countless people who enjoy it safely and responsibly.
At the same time, Nandy was firm that the government would continue to protect players from the harm the excessive consumption of gambling content could cause.
The DCMS Vowed to Support Young Brits
Nandy’s position was criticized by shadow culture secretary Julia Lopez who accused her of not pursuing good policies but “good vibes.” Lopez continued that DCMS sectors need more than vibes, emphasizing that they need decisions instead, as well as a reliable budget.
Nandy countered by accusing the former government of decreasing youth funding by a whopping 73%. When asked whether she believes the new government can increase these resources, Nandy said that her team is “absolutely determined” to grip the issue. She added that one of the things the current government discovered was that there were several sources of funding within her department and across the government but no strategy for youth funding at all.
Nandy concluded that the DCMS team is determined to set things right and develop a strategy for the young people in the UK.
