UK government appointment could have positive impact on gambling

UK Prime Minister Theresa May has named Matt Hancock as Culture Secretary in a move that is expected to benefit the British gambling sector.

UK .- In addition to leading the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), Hancock will take on responsibility for horseracing and gambling.

He will also oversee the completion of the reform of the levy in the UK, according to the Racing Post. His previous activity related to gambling is said to serve as an indicator of what the industry can expect to see under his leadership.

In 2012, Hancock unveiled the Offshore Gambling Bill, a private members’ bill that sought to amend the 2005 Gambling Act to “provide that all relevant operators contribute to the Horserace Betting Levy”.

Hancock, as former president of the Racehorse Owners Association Rachel Hood describes, played a key role in urging the government to look at a reform of the current levy system.

“Hancock has a full understanding of the industry and its dynamics and we look forward to working with him,” Paul Darling, chairman of the Association of British Bookmakers said.