Vicky Foxcroft Confirmed as New Minister for Gambling

Vicky Foxcroft has been confirmed as the new minister responsible for gambling, succeeding Baroness Twycross in the new government of Andy Burnham. Foxcroft, Member of Parliament for Lewisham North, previously served as the Treasury Commissioner. Burnham formed his government in July after Sir Keir Starmer left office. Despite the changes, Lisa Nandy remains at the helm of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), under whose jurisdiction gambling policy falls.

Foxcroft's Political Career

Foxcroft began her career as an MP in 2015, representing Lewisham, Deptford. With changes to electoral boundaries in 2024, she became the MP for Lewisham North. During her time in opposition, she served as a shadow minister focusing on civil society, work, and pensions.

In 2017, Foxcroft raised concerns about child gambling prevention, showcasing her interest in gambling regulation. A 2021 post on her website revealed her stance on gambling regulation as a public health issue, aiming to protect the vulnerable while allowing safe gambling for all.

New Regulatory Approach

Foxcroft advocates for evidence-based regulation, focused on reducing gambling-related harms and adapting to the digital environment. These assertions resonate with the government’s consultation on the 'permitting rule' and planning permits for gaming centres.

Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, has congratulated Foxcroft, emphasizing the need for future policies to be proportionate and consider the impact of recent regulations on jobs and investment.

Collaboration with the Sector

Foxcroft's appointment comes after Sarah Fox from the DCMS joined the Gambling Commission to oversee the regulation of the National Lottery, among other duties. According to Hurst, it is vital to work with Foxcroft against the black market in gambling, which poses a risk to consumers and does not contribute to the British economy.

Hurst also thanked Baroness Twycross for her 'genuine effort' during her tenure as Minister for Gambling.

Industry Reactions

The industry looks forward to collaborating with Foxcroft to support British bookmakers and casinos in a sector that sustains 109,000 jobs and contributes billions to the economy. It is crucial that any new policy be evidence-led to ensure the competitiveness of the regulated sector.

The leadership change occurs at a time when white paper regulations have introduced significant changes, and collaboration with the new leadership is seen as key to navigating these challenges.