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.”
Ends
