The UK Entertainment and Gaming Halls Association, Bacta, has appointed Declan Johnson as its Public Affairs Consultant. He will report to Bacta's Executive Director of Government Relations, George McGregor.
Johnson holds a Master's degree in Policy and Politics from Birkbeck University. He joined Bacta because the organization aims to establish connections with MPs of the new Labour government in the UK, promoting continued gambling reforms following last year's white paper on updating the 2005 Gambling Act.
McGregor stated: "After the general election in July, not only did we welcome a new government, but over 50% of the elected MPs were newcomers to the House of Commons. Our industry is highly regulated, therefore, we must engage in progressive dialogue with all political stakeholders and establish effective representation within the core of the government.
"Declan has worked in political communications and mainstream public relations, and he will join the team to ensure that Bacta's voice is heard in all crucial debates affecting the development of seaside and high streets.
"He will help Bacta achieve its political objectives, including the early implementation of reforms suggested in the white paper, reviewing the maximum stakes and prize levels, and introducing modern payment methods on low-stake, low-prize gambling entertainment machines."
