Building Bridges: Bacta and GBG in Positive Dialogue with Gambling Reform APPG

On Tuesday, representatives from Bacta and the Gambling Business Group (GBG) held a joint private meeting with the Gambling Reform All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) to discuss the future of the land-based gambling sector. The session was constructive, wide-ranging, and focused on practical solutions to the challenges facing operators, regulators, and customers alike.

Bacta was represented by recently elected President Joseph Cullis and new Director of Communications Allaster Gair. Attending on behalf of the GBG were CEO Peter Hannibal and General Manager Charlotte Meller. Together, they presented a united front and a forward-looking perspective on how to shape an effective and proportionate framework for land-based gambling in the UK.

This latest discussion signalled a more open and evidence-led dialogue with parliamentarians. Both trade bodies emphasised their shared commitment to safer gambling, customer protection, and the long-term sustainability of high street venues. A number of topics were covered, with industry representatives setting out practical proposals that balance robust consumer safeguards with a viable path forward for operators.

Bacta President Joseph Cullis welcomed the tone of the meeting. “This was a really constructive and respectful conversation,” he said. “We were pleased to have the opportunity to set out the reality of the land-based sector – how we operate, the protections already in place, and our willingness to keep improving. Dialogue like this is essential if we’re going to get reform right for both consumers and businesses.”

The meeting also gave Bacta and the GBG the chance to challenge misconceptions. Both organisations highlighted the low-staking, socially responsible nature of adult gaming centres and other land-based venues. The trade bodies underlined the benefits of staffed environments, face-to-face engagement, and robust self-exclusion and harm minimisation tools. There was also a candid exchange on areas where further progress can be made. Bacta and the GBG acknowledged challenges and reiterated a willingness to work collaboratively with policymakers and parliamentarians.

This engagement forms part of a wider programme of political outreach by Bacta. Over the coming weeks and months, Bacta will continue to meet with MPs, Peers, and officials to advocate for a land-based sector that is safe, sustainable, and supported. Members will be kept informed as this work progresses, and are encouraged to play their part by hosting site visits, sharing impact stories, and speaking up about the realities of operating on the high street.

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17 July 2025

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