Bacta has confirmed Declan Johnson as its new Public Affairs Consultant to continue strengthening ties with the UK government.
Johnson, who holds a Master's degree in Policy and Politics from Birkbeck University, will report directly to George McGregor, the Executive Director of Government Relations at Bacta.
McGregor, discussing his new role, said: "After the July elections, not only do we have a new government, but over 50% of the elected MPs are new members of the House of Commons.
"We operate in a highly regulated industry, so it is essential to have progressive dialogues with all political stakeholders and establish effective representation mechanisms at the core of the government.
"Declan has worked in political communication and mainstream public relations. He will join the team to ensure Bacta's voice is heard in all important debates affecting the development of seaside and high streets.
"He will help Bacta achieve its political goals, 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."
The UK is in the midst of regulatory changes in the land-based gambling industry. Before the recent elections, the organization urged members to strengthen contacts with local council candidates to ensure they "complete the work of modernizing national gambling regulations."
Jeremy Gordon, Managing Director of the Gordon Gambling Organization, emphasized at the time: "We need to ensure that all future parliamentary candidates understand why the changes proposed in the white paper are crucial for the long-term sustainability of British family entertainment centers and adult gambling centers.
"Given the importance of amusement parks in the tourism industry of our seaside resorts, we hope that amusement parks will become a top priority on the political agenda."
Introducing the issues he would discuss to future Labour MP Polly Billington, he said: "My core message is that we are in the midst of a 'cost of operation crisis,' and we need to complete the work of the white paper.
"I cannot stress how important the next three weeks are: we must seize the opportunity to lobby the candidates before they become elected MPs to ensure our industry is firmly on the political agenda."
