Betting & Gaming Council AGM Summary 2025

Grainne Hurst’s First AGM as CEO

BGC CEO Grainne Hurst took centre stage in an interview with Times Radio host John Pienaar, marking her first AGM since stepping into the role. She expressed pride in becoming the first female CEO of the BGC and used the opportunity to champion Global Gaming Women – this is an organisation supporting thousands of women in the industry.

Hurst, whose background includes political roles before switching to the gambling sector, spoke about the importance of maintaining a unified voice for the industry. She acknowledged the challenges ahead but stressed that data-driven policy is essential to ensure fair and effective regulation.

Regulation and Financial Stability Checks

A major talking point at the AGM was the White Paper on gambling reform, with Hurst noting that most of its measures should be implemented by the end of the year. A particular focus was placed on affordability checks and anti-money laundering (AML) measures. While customer protection remains a priority, Hurst emphasised the need for a system that avoids unnecessary friction and makes sure that financial checks do not become overly intrusive for the majority of customers.

She confirmed that the BGC is working closely with regulators to strike the right balance in reducing the amount of personal financial data that customers need to provide while keeping necessary safeguards in place.

Advertising and Public Perception

Advertising restrictions were another focal point, with Hurst highlighting the progress in reducing exposure to younger audiences. She pointed to Euro 2024 as an example, noting that the industry had taken significant steps compared to Euro 2020.

But she also acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly when dealing with media narratives. Hurst expressed frustration over what she described as misinformation influencing public debate, calling for more accurate data to shape policy decisions.

Michael Dugher’s Address: Reflection and Challenges Ahead

BGC Chair Michael Dugher’s address blended humour with serious reflections on the state of the industry. He praised Hurst’s leadership, noting her “enthusiasm and expertise” in guiding the BGC through key regulatory changes.

Dugher reflected on the last five years, acknowledging the challenges the industry has faced but highlighting how operators have come together to improve standards. He pushed back against extreme anti-gambling rhetoric, noting that gambling had not been a major concern during his time in Parliament.

One of the more politically motivated moments came when Dugher criticised the Welsh Government’s proposal to ban greyhound racing, arguing that it would disproportionately affect working-class communities. He cautioned that such policies could alienate Labour’s traditional voter base.

Baroness Twycross on the Future of Gambling Regulation

The event’s final speaker was Baroness Twycross, Minister for Gambling. She acknowledged the economic value of the gambling industry and its potential role in the government’s broader economic growth plans. She also reinforced the importance of responsible gambling initiatives (something Twycross has been big on since she took her position).

Key regulatory updates included confirmation of the statutory gambling levy, set to take effect on 6 April. Additionally, a £5 stake limit for online slots will be introduced on 9 April, with a lower £2 limit for younger players coming into force on 21 May.

Twycross expressed appreciation for the BGC’s cooperation on advertising reforms but acknowledged concerns over the potential harm advertising could pose to vulnerable individuals. She reassured attendees that the Gambling Commission remains committed to tackling illicit gambling activities and ensuring fair play across the sector.