DCMS leadership uncertain as Labour MP Debbonaire loses seat

Thangam Debbonaire, the Shadow Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), suffered a significant defeat in the recent general election, resulting in uncertainties regarding the leadership of the DCMS under the incoming Labour government and raising concerns about the future timelines for crucial land-based gaming reforms.

Despite Labour’s sweeping victory, Debbonaire lost her Bristol Central seat to the Green Party’s Carla Denyer, garnering 14,132 votes against Denyer’s 24,539.

Debbonaire was appointed as Shadow Secretary for the DCMS in September of the previous year and had represented Bristol West since 2015, a constituency that was redefined into Bristol Central due to boundary changes in 2023.

Interestingly, Lucy Frazer, the former Secretary for Culture, Media, and Sport in the outgoing Conservative government, also lost her parliamentary seat, narrowly defeated by Charlotte Cane of the Liberal Democrats in Ely and East Cambridge.

What Lies Ahead for the DCMS?

Debbonaire’s loss prompts important questions regarding the future direction of the DCMS. Will Labour leader Keir Starmer appoint a direct successor, or will he explore an alternative leadership approach?

George McGregor, Executive Director of the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (Bacta), speculated that Debbonaire might still play a role within the party structure, suggesting a potential elevation to the House of Lords where she could assume a significant position.

“There is a possibility she may be appointed to the House of Lords and become the Secretary of State from there,” McGregor indicated.

Stephanie Peacock Likely to Assume Gambling Minister Role

With the potential restructuring within the DCMS, McGregor noted the possibility of separating the gambling portfolio, likely assigning it to Stephanie Peacock, the shadow gambling minister, who successfully retained her Barnsley South seat in the election.

However, this transition may result in delays to the implementation of the Gambling Act review’s reforms. McGregor expressed concern that if both a new Secretary of State and a new gambling minister enter office simultaneously, it could lead to significant delays in advancing necessary reforms.

Will Leadership Changes Cause Delays for Land-Based Reforms?

Prior to the election, the DCMS unveiled a suite of land-based reforms, including a new 2:1 ratio for Category B to Category C and D gaming machines in bingo halls and arcades, as well as lifting the prohibition on debit card payments for gaming machines.

McGregor emphasized the importance of these reforms for the retail gambling sector. “Bacta will continue to advocate for swift action now that a new government is in place,” he stated.

“We’re also urging a comprehensive review of stakes and prizes for gaming machines, as no increases have occurred in the UK for over a decade—13 years in pubs alone,” he added. “Our request is straightforward: we seek an increase in stakes and prizes merely to keep pace with inflation.”

McGregor remains optimistic that the Labour party’s previously demonstrated commitment to land-based reform will persist after the election. “Labour ministers had expressed broad cross-party support for various reforms, including stake reductions and the deregulation of cashless transactions and adult gaming centres. It would be unexpected for them to reverse course once in power,” he concluded.

This pivotal moment in the UK gambling sector highlights the need for proactive leadership as the landscape shifts, underscoring the importance of continued dialogue and reform within the industry.