The Gambling Business Group has issued an open invitation to PM Andy Burnham to engage with licensed gambling businesses during his tour of the UK, to encourage “constructive dialogue” about the future of the high street.
The offer comes after Burnham announced he intends to remove the Aim to Permit principle from licensing laws as of 2027, raising “some significant questions for Britain’s land-based gambling sector.”
“We recognise the Government’s ambition to support and revitalise our high streets,” said GBG spokesperson. “But decisions affecting legitimate and compliant businesses operating within them should be informed by evidence, first-hand understanding and meaningful engagement with the people they affect.”.
“There is still much detail to understand around these proposals, including timescales, consultation and their wider implications for businesses operating within an already highly regulated sector.”
Extending the invitation to Burnham, the GBG wrote “come and visit one or more of our members’ licensed gambling premises. Meet the people running these businesses and the consumers that frequent them.”
“See first-hand the regulation, safeguards and customer protections already in place. And hear directly from operators about the important role their businesses play in our high streets, local economies and communities.”
“We may not agree on every aspect of policy, but we believe constructive dialogue and evidence should be at the heart of decisions about the future of our high streets.”
Originally published on Coinslot on August 24, 2026. Republished with permission.