Government reshuffle sees Helen Whately appointed UK Gambling Minister

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sports (DCMS) has confirmed the appointment of Helen Whately MP for Faversham and Mid Kent as its minister overseeing UK gambling.

The Conservative government undertakes a reshuffle of departments and personnel, following the expulsion of twenty-one of its MPs and further senior cabinet resignations, having opposed the party’s stance over PM Boris Johnson‘s Brexit strategy and the proroguing of Parliament.

Whately replaces short-term incumbent Rebecca Pow, who was appointed as gambling minister last July as Boris Johnson took office. Pow is reported to be joining the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

The UK gambling sector sees its third ministerial appointment in less than a year, following the resignation of former Sports Minister Tracey Crouch in protest of the UK Treasury attempting to delay the enforcement of FOBTs machine £2 stake limit.

Crouch’s resignation would see Mims Davies MP for Eastleigh appointed UK Sports Minister serving under Theresa May’s premiership.

Despite the government’s upheaval, DCMS maintains its leadership structure with Nicky Morgan MP for Loughborough, serving as the department’s Secretary.

Nigel Adams MP for Selby and Ainsty is kept as Sports Minister, supporting Whately in overseeing the regulatory development and oversight for both the UK gambling and horseracing sectors.

Delighted to join @DCMS as Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism. Already lost count of the number of people who’ve told me I have the best job in Government. pic.twitter.com/jlQV1f9E5f

— Helen Whately (@Helen_Whately) September 11, 2019