July 30, 2021

The co-owner of Clacton Pier seized the chance to discuss potential future regulation of his industry with the Minister of State for Gambling when he visited the seaside attraction.

Elliot Ball made it clear to John Whittingdale MP that he felt there are sufficient controls in place - provided they are managed responsibly.

Maldon MP Mr Wittingdale, who holds the ministerial post at the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, was in Clacton as a guest of bacta.

A Gambling Review was launched last December, and a White Paper is due to be brought out by the end of the year.

The aim is to gather evidence as to whether the balance of regulation is right, or if further measures are needed to protect children and vulnerable people.

“We were very grateful to have the opportunity to meet the Minister and discuss the review with him,” added Mr Ball.

“He clearly understood that we are in the serious business of fun and are fully aware of our responsibilities and take them on board. We feel the current rules are about right if adhered to and used properly.”

Mr Ball said the visit also gave him the opportunity to show the Minister around the pier and demonstrate the investment made in Clacton, providing entertainment to visitors and jobs for local people.

“We were pleased to be joined by our local MP Giles Watling who has been supportive of our business in general.”

The visit was organised by bacta, the trade association for the amusement and gaming machine industry.

“Bacta has had a long-standing relationship with John Whittingdale, given his previous roles as Chair of the DCMS Select Committee and in the last Government as DCMS Secretary of State,” said bacta CEO John White.

“He has always taken the time to understand our business and it was good to put some flesh on the bones of our evidence to the Gambling Review.

“My thanks to Elliot and Billy Ball for taking time out at one of the busiest periods of the year to host the Minister. They were able to showcase the best of our industry and explain from personal experience just how difficult the Covid-19 has been for amusement machine businesses.”

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