Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer Addresses Gambling with Lives Annual Parliamentary Forum
Secretary of State Lucy Frazer addresses gambling addiction and reform at Gambling with Lives Annual Parliamentary Forum.
On March 1, 2023, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media, and Sport, the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC MP, delivered a speech at the Gambling with Lives Annual Parliamentary Forum. In her address, she acknowledged the tireless efforts of the organization and its champions in the fight against gambling addiction. She also recognized the value of the organization's work in supporting families affected by gambling addiction across the country.
Frazer stated that shortly after her appointment, she read the organization's response to the call for evidence and was struck by the harrowing stories of individuals whose lives were ruined by gambling. She expressed her sympathies for the families who have been affected by gambling addiction and acknowledged the importance of hearing directly from them when looking at gambling reform.
Frazer stated that she has read the House of Lords report on Gambling Harm Time for Action and recently met with the lived experience advisory panel. She heard some moving stories and was struck by how diverse their experiences were. She acknowledged the vulnerability of young people and recognized that gambling doesn't just destroy the lives of the gamblers themselves, but it has a devastating impact on their loved ones as well.
The Review of the Gambling Act is an opportunity to make the necessary changes to ensure the right protections are in place for the digital age. Frazer emphasized that nearly every area of gambling policy is in scope, and she wants to make sure the views of organizations like Gambling with Lives are heard and reflected.
Frazer acknowledged that there are a variety of views on the way forward, and the White Paper when it is published will not be the last word on reform. She expressed her commitment to continuing to talk to organizations like Gambling with Lives and to ensure they understand the drivers of gambling harm and how they can protect the public.
In conclusion, Frazer thanked Gambling with Lives for everything they have done so far and for everything she is sure they will continue to do in the future. She emphasized that the White Paper is an absolute priority for her and the Prime Minister, and they are committed to publishing it soon. However, she also wants to take the necessary time to ensure the issues are addressed justly and that she meets with affected families and organizations to fully understand the issues.