Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) CEO Grainne Hurst says the organization plays a key role in addressing misconceptions about gambling promoted by the UK media.
In an interview with iGB this week, Hurst described the public and national media’s view of gambling as one of her “biggest frustrations,” claiming it amplifies the voices of anti-gambling campaigners who, she believes, remain firmly opposed regardless of the evidence.
“I believe there is still a lingering misconception about the gambling industry among the wider public, and the BGC is working hard to change that,” says Hurst.
She sees one of the BGC’s main goals as educating the public on the true state of the gambling sector, using solid evidence to challenge negative media narratives.
“There are several ways we can do this,” Hurst explains. “Having a strong evidence base to counter the myths, misconceptions, and, frankly, the lies sometimes seen in the media is vital and a key responsibility for the BGC.
“It’s also about listening to customers and understanding their perspectives on whatever myth is circulating at the time. I believe the BGC has a major role to play here, and we are working very hard to fulfill that.”
Sector should be doing more to improve its reputation, says Hurst
However, Hurst believes the industry must do more to change the UK public’s negative perception of gambling.
She points to major advancements in player protection and responsible gambling, especially in the wake of the Gambling Act review and the release of the white paper.
“We’ve made great progress, but there’s still more to achieve,” Hurst says. “It’s frustrating because I know just how proactive and responsible this industry is.
“But as we all know, good news rarely makes headlines. That’s why it’s essential to weave positive stories into our everyday communications—something we’ve been doing and will continue to do—to showcase the many positive steps the industry has already taken and continues to take.”
How will mandatory levy funding be spent?
Hurst views the BGC as a united voice for the licensed UK gambling industry—a role she says will continue through active engagement with external stakeholders, including the government and the Gambling Commission.
She also raises concerns about the new mandatory levy, introduced this year following recommendations from the 2023 white paper.
Her main worry is that the funds might be directed toward anti-gambling research and education, which she believes could ultimately harm those affected by gambling issues.
“Continuing to lead in education and awareness outside the scope of the mandatory levy will be crucial,” Hurst explains. “However, with much of this now being taken out of our hands under the new system, we must remain mindful and ensure it’s delivered effectively.”
Tax harmonisation proposals another concern
Another pressing issue for Hurst, the BGC, and the broader UK gambling sector is the government’s recent announcement to overhaul the existing online gambling tax framework.
At present, the UK operates three separate tax rates for online betting: Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) at 21% of profits, General Betting Duty (GBD) at 15% of profits, and Pool Betting Duty (PBD) at 15% of net stake receipts.
Under the government’s proposal, these would be merged into a single rate, with industry stakeholders fearing it will be set at 21% across all verticals.
A recent YouGov poll indicated that nearly two-thirds of bettors would consider using unlicensed operators if the tax rate rises.
Hurst shares these concerns, warning that opposing the measure will be the BGC’s most significant challenge in the months ahead.
“We’ve been very clear that a single tax rate at this level would be entirely self-defeating,” she says. “It won’t achieve the government’s goal of increasing revenue. Instead, it will damage customer offerings, fuel black market growth, and drastically cut funding for vital British sports such as horse racing, rugby league, darts, and snooker.”
Hurst became BGC CEO in September last year, following six and a half years as Entain’s group director of corporate affairs.
Her first year in the role has coincided with major change and uncertainty, as most of the white paper reforms are being implemented at once.
Meanwhile, the UK industry continues to face intense media scrutiny, particularly on issues like advertising and taxation.
