In a bid to establish a unified voice for the UK gambling sector, the Remote Gambling Association (RGA) and the Association of British Bookmakers (ABB) are set to be replaced by the Betting and Gaming Council, pending the council securing full operations.
Announcing its upcoming launch, the industry body has stated that it aims to represent 90 per cent of UK licensed betting firms excluding lotteries.
Confirming her new role this morning, former GambleAware trustee, Brigid Simmonds OBE will as the first chair of the Betting and Gaming Council following her departure as Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).
Commenting on her appointment, Simmonds said: “The gambling industry is a hugely significant contributor to the leisure industry and to the economy.
“There are, however, critical issues facing the sector and that is why I will ensure that creating a safe gambling environment is the top priority. I will be listening to all stakeholders to ensure that the Betting and Gaming Council is leading the industry in identifying effective measures to protect customers.”
Prior to her role as CEO of the BBPA, Simmonds has held a number of senior roles in the industry, having served on the Sport England Lottery Panel, and the main board of Sport England.
In recognition of her contribution to the sports industry, Simmonds was named an Officer of the British Empire in 2006.
The Betting and Gaming Council formation comes at a critical time for the UK gambling industry as the sector is faced with numerous policy and regulatory changes pertaining to social responsibility, consumer standards, advertising and customer engagement standards.
Commenting on the foundation of the Betting and Gaming Council, ABB Chairman Paul Darling added: “I welcome the creation of the Betting and Gaming Council which will enable the sharing of best practice across the industry and significantly increase the capability for innovation on new safer gambling measures.”
