UK Politician Positive On Gambling

Today the United Kingdom's Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Ivan Lewis MP shared a positive message regarding gambling when he spoke at the Business In Sport & Leisure Member's Meeting.

Stating that he thinks gambling is enjoyed by the majority of the United Kingdom, Lewis said, "My position is that for a small number, gambling is either a problem or has the potential to become a problem. Where that’s the case we have to have systems in place which provide protection. Beyond that it is clear that large numbers of the UK population enjoy gambling and that it is a part of their leisure choice. My focus is on legitimate intervention and to work with the gambling industry, which has demonstrated a firm commitment to social responsibility.”

Lewis, a member of the Labour Party also went on to discuss a variety of different issues such as taxation and argued for the growth of the Department of Culture Media & Sport, stating that he believes other sections of government are making decisions that the department should oversee.

Encouraged by the words he heard from Lewis, BISL Chief Executive Dominic Harrison said, "t was very encouraging to hear a senior member of the Labour Party respond to questions from our members in such a positive way. Mr Lewis demonstrated a pragmatic as opposed to a dogmatic approach to both the business world generally and the gambling industry in particular. I think BISL’s broad church approach to key issues allows it to engage with politicians and decision makers and take the debate forward in a constructive way. I am certain this will be the start of a positive relationship with Ivan Lewis and another strand of the constructive dialogue the gambling industry needs to put in place with mainstream politicians.”