The recent appointment of Jeremy Wright as the new Culture Secretary marks the latest stage in a fairly intense period for the gambling world especially. The former Attorney General steps into the Culture Secretary role just a few short months after the Government made the huge announcement that the maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) was reduced from £100 to just £2. The decision was received well by critics of the machines, but has gained the fury of many operators and other industry insiders, leaving the iGaming world less than stable, something the Remote Gambling Authority (RGA) hopes to see an end too soon. 
Period of stability
Commenting on the hiring of Mr Wright into the Culture Secretary position, Clive Hawkswood of the RGA said: “After the protracted debate around FOBTs and the Triennial review process, I think the wider industry really needs a period of stability, so I’d suggest it could be counter-productive for anyone to rush forward with a shopping list of issues they might like him to consider.”
Massive threat
Another organisation looking to Mr Wright for direction in his new job is the Association of British Bookmakers, who said: “We look forward to working with the new Secretary of State, Jeremy Wright QC, MP to ensure a sustainable and responsible retail betting industry. “Betting shops are facing a massive threat as the new maximum stake on gaming machines will result in thousands of shop closures, job losses and significant economic consequences for horse and greyhound racing. “It is vital that we work with the Secretary of State and his department to mitigate these impacts where possible and ensure that betting shops remain one of the safest environments in which to gamble in the UK.”It is fair to say that Mr Wright is going to have his work cut out for him in his new job.