The UK minister for Gambling, Chris Philp, has resigned from his position with immediate effect citing ‘events over the past few weeks and months’ as the reason for his departure.
White paper is with No.10 for final approval
Philps is the latest in a string of ministers who have resigned as a result in a lack of confidence in UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is facing calls to resign himself.
His exit comes at a time when the UK government is preparing for the long-awaited publication of a white paper which will recommend sweeping changes to the gambling industry and its regulation. The white paper was originally scheduled for publication in 2020 but was delayed to December 2021. It was then further delayed due to a ministerial reshuffle which saw Philps replace John Whittingdale.
There are fears that this latest resignation could mean yet another delay, but Philps has addressed those worries in his resignation statement:
“The Gambling review is with No 10 at the moment for final approval, containing strong measures to protect people from gambling addiction. I have met with families of those who have committed suicide as a result of gambling addiction and I urge you to deliver the review in full undiluted.”
I’m deeply saddened it has come to this, but the PM should step down given public and Parliamentary confidence has clearly gone, and given the importance of integrity in public life. I’m therefore stepping down as Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy now pic.twitter.com/iXyd7inBQP
— Chris Philp (@CPhilpOfficial) July 7, 2022
Reports emerged recently that the government was considering watering down the recommendations made within the review with the ban on football kit sponsorship one of the main proposals set to be ignored.
Philp’s position was within the government Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). This department is currently led by Nadine Dorries, who has not yet resigned.
Olivia has worked as an editor and writer for major brands across multiple niches. She now focuses on the iGaming and sports betting industries.