Michael Dugher, the head of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), acknowledged today that even he is unaware of the details within the UK government’s forthcoming white paper on gaming.
During the BGC’s yearly gathering, Entain’s Director of Public Affairs, Martin Lythgoe, questioned Dugher about the potential for a mandatory tax on gaming companies to finance addiction support and studies. Lythgoe highlighted recent remarks from industry figures like Rob Davies and Tom Whisker, who implied a levy was practically certain. He also voiced worries about the persistent fallacy that the industry controls how GambleAware, a well-known gaming charity, utilizes its funds.
Dugher conceded that the white paper has undergone numerous alterations and influences, making it impossible for anyone, even those closely involved, to be certain of its final version. He reassured Lythgoe that the BGC is actively working to debunk false information about GambleAware and its financing, but ultimately, the contents of the white paper remain unknown.
Listen, it seems even those with inside knowledge are having a tough time pinning down the exact contents of this report. Discussions are ongoing within the relevant agencies, and you can be sure there will be plenty of negotiation across the government before anything is finalized.
“Therefore, and I don’t intend to downplay myself, but I’m unaware of the report’s specifics, and neither is Rob Davis. He and Tom, they’re as much activists as they are reporters, and that’s alright. They have a perspective, and that’s part of how public conversation functions.
“However, let’s be transparent about our positions. I’m open about speaking for this sector, and I believe those advocates are fairly upfront about their representation as well. Let’s not misrepresent ourselves.
“Rob Davis hasn’t a whisper of what’s in that report. He’ll speak with individuals who might have an inkling of what they *desire* to be included, what’s being considered, and that’s fair play. But let’s not be taken in by this ‘we’re privy to the report’s content’ charade. Because I’m not, and they certainly aren’t either.”