Engaging with politicians and policymakers sits at the core of Bacta’s engagement programme. A busy summer spent advancing members’ support for the visitor economy has been followed by two meetings with Baroness Twycross in the course of three days. Bacta is continuing its progressive political engagement campaign, holding two meetings with Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross in the course of three days.
On Wednesday 3rd September, Bacta President Joseph Cullis and Director of Communications Allaster Gair met the Minister at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in Parliament Street, London, ahead of Baroness Twycross being hosted by Bacta Executive Director and former President, John Bollom, at a Bacta member venue in Cleethorpes on Friday 5th.
Outlining the importance of being able to engage with the Minister, Joseph Cullis reflected: “I was delighted to meet with Baroness Twycross and to have an open, constructive discussion on the big issues impacting our members inland and at the coast. We covered player protection, MGD and the 80/20 rule, and I was pleased that the Minister will now see a venue in action in Cleethorpes
“What has struck me in all my dealings with Baroness Twycross is her pragmatic approach to building a modern and socially responsible industry. That is very much Bacta’s vision too. I particularly welcome her willingness to hear directly from staff on the front line. Every policymaker who has visited a Bacta member venue has left impressed by the professionalism they see and the safe, enjoyable experience we provide.”
Putting the latest meetings into the context of Bacta’s wider engagement campaign, Allaster Gair explained: “These conversations are part of a wider campaign to bring politicians face-to-face with our members. The summer recess saw us launch a programme of visits across the country, backed by independent polling showing the public’s strong support for our venues as anchors of seaside towns. Engaging frankly and regularly with the Minister is essential. Bacta has to be open about the pressures our sector faces and honest about the improvements we are making. That is the basis of a constructive relationship and one we intend to build on through the party conference season and beyond.”
These meetings also mark the start of a busy autumn for Bacta. The association will continue to champion members’ interests at the upcoming Labour Party Conference in Liverpool (28 September – 1 October), where its campaign on player protection, fair taxation and coastal regeneration will be a central focus.
