Vicky Foxcroft becomes UK gambling minister amid local licensing reform
Vicky Foxcroft has replaced Baroness Fiona Twycross as the UK gambling minister, according to the report. It says Andy Burnham has announced plans to end the “aim to permit” principle, allowing councils to consider existing concentrations of betting shops and adult gaming centres when assessing new premises; rules are expected in early 2027 after a six-week consultation. The Betting and Gaming Council said 540 betting shops had closed and 4,500 jobs had been lost since the latest Budget.
Foxcroft’s appointment coincides with proposed changes that could affect how councils assess new gambling premises.