Bank of England to join UK Gambling Minister, Shadow Minister and gambling industry CEO’s at Bacta Convention

This year’s Bacta Convention (22nd November) is shaping up to be one of the most insightful of recent times with leading politicians, the Gambling Commission’s Andrew Rhodes, Michael Dugher of the Betting and Gaming Council and the Bingo Association’s Miles Baron all accepting invitations to attend the UK trade association’s annual members’ meeting.

The Bank of England is the latest influential body to agree to be part of the showpiece event and will provide expert insight on payments trends including what the Bank is doing to protect access to cash.

Bacta has been highly encouraged by the positive response it has received from politicians, institutions and thought leaders alike. Chief Executive John White noted: “Our aim with the Convention is to bring together a corps of speakers who are authorities in their field, who are able to explain latest thinking and who can talk about the implications of both policy and related developments for Bacta members and their businesses.

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“With the next UK General Election having to take place by 28th January 2025 and following the long-awaited publication of the White Paper on gambling reform I am delighted that we have been able to secure both the Minister responsible for gambling, The Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP as well as the Shadow Minister, Alex Davies-Jones MP. Both will, I am sure, be keen to outline the direction of travel, explain policy objectives and their party’s vision for the future of land-based gambling businesses in the UK. The political theme will be extended into the evening when Bacta holds its annual Parliamentary Reception in the House of Commons.

“Betting and Gaming Council CEO Michael Dugher who during his career as a Labour Party MP served as Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and Miles Baron, CEO of the Bingo Association will participate in a ‘C-Level In Conversation’ round table whilst another CEO, The Gambling Commission’s Andrew Rhodes will be making a key note speech.”

White added: “We are waiting to hear from a number of our invited guests but close to six months out of the first Convention to take place under the auspices of the newly restructured Bacta I am delighted at the calibre of attendees who have agreed to join us.”