Former gambling minister Stuart Andrew appointed shadow culture secretary by Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch

Stuart Andrew, the last government’s minister for sport and gambling, is back on familiar ground as new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch rounds out his shadow cabinet on Tuesday.

Andrew, who served as parliamentary undersecretary of state for sport, gaming and civil society from September 2022 until this summer’s general election, has been appointed shadow culture secretary.

During his time as minister, Andrew oversaw the publication of the government’s long-delayed gambling white paper in April last year; this report contained controversial recommendations regarding affordability checks.

It had also held talks with the betting and racing industries over tax reform, which was said to be close to agreement, before collapsing following Rishi Sunak’s decision to call a snap election this summer.

While most of the proposals in the white paper have been on hold since the elections, tax negotiations have not yet started.

Andrew, who became opposition chief after the election, told the Racing Post he was happy to be back in culture, media and sport, saying it was a role he “really enjoyed” in government.

He added: “I will actively engage with stakeholders and keep them updated on their thoughts and concerns.

“My job is to highlight their concerns on behalf of stakeholders, find out from the government what their timetable is and get an update on the direction of their policies so we can bring some certainty to the industry.”

The Betting and Gaming Council invited Andrew to post on X, formerly Twitter, adding: “Stuart is a highly experienced and respected politician who knows our industry well.”

Some of Andrew’s predecessors as sports and gaming minister were also given places in the shadow cabinet.

Chris Philp became shadow home secretary, Mims Davies became the new shadow Wales secretary, and Nigel Huddleston was appointed co-leader of the Conservative Party. Racing fan Priti Patel has been appointed shadow foreign secretary.

Then read these:

UK Gambling Minister Q&A: Our aim is to protect the financial sustainability of British racing – I know it can be achieved

Gambling minister Stuart Andrew has vowed not to sign off on affordability checks until he is sure they work

Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew: Affordability debate in Westminster ‘a significant opportunity’

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