BGC CEO Hurst slams mainstream media ‘lies’ about UK gambling sector
Summary
Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chief Grainne Hurst accuses mainstream media of repeating myths and ‘lies’ about the UK gambling industry and says the trade body is working to counter that negative narrative. Hurst stresses the BGC’s role in using evidence and customer feedback to correct misconceptions and communicate improvements in player protection and responsible gambling since the Gambling Act review.
She also warns about the implications of the new mandatory levy and government plans to harmonise online gambling taxes. Hurst fears levy funds could be directed towards anti-gambling research and education in ways that harm those affected, and argues a single higher tax rate (potentially 21%) could push punters to the unregulated black market and reduce funding for British sports.
Author style
Punchy — Hurst’s comments are a direct call-to-arms: the BGC wants to reset the conversation and is gearing up for battles over levy control and tax reform. If these issues matter to you, the full detail is worth a read.
Key Points
- • BGC CEO Grainne Hurst says mainstream media often repeats myths and ‘lies’ about gambling.
- • The BGC is prioritising evidence-based communications and customer feedback to challenge negative narratives.
- • The industry has made progress on player protection and responsible gambling but still needs to improve its reputation.
- • Hurst is concerned the new mandatory levy could be used to fund anti-gambling work that may not help those harmed by gambling.
- • Proposed tax harmonisation to a single, higher rate risks growing the black market and reducing support for UK sports like horse racing, rugby league, darts and snooker.
Context and relevance
This article sets out the BGC’s priorities under Grainne Hurst amid intense media scrutiny and regulatory change. Operators, regulators and sporting partners should note the organisation’s focus on pushback against media narratives, protecting industry funding, and resisting tax changes seen as damaging to the licensed market.
Why should I read this?
Short answer: because the BGC chief is calling out press spin and flagging the two fights most likely to reshape UK gambling — levy distribution and tax reform. It’s a quick way to understand the sector’s stance and what battles are coming up.