Business of the House

Jim Dickson Excerpts

Thursday 12th March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I am sure that this was not an easy decision for the police, but I can understand the distress that it might cause. Even now, I hope that a local solution can be found. The hon. Gentleman raises the question of whether there will be a debate to commemorate St George’s day—let me see what we can do in that regard. Such a debate would give him and others the opportunity to raise issues like this one.

[Jim Dickson (Dartford) (Lab)]

It has been a really big step forward to see the statutory levy on gambling operators up and running since April last year, with the money raised from it ringfenced for much-needed gambling-related harms research, prevention and treatment. However, with only three weeks until the new financial year, I am concerned that funding allocations have not yet been announced, leaving vital organisations such as GamCare, Gordon Moody and many others uncertain of their future. Will the Leader of the House pass on my concerns to the relevant Health Minister and ask that they update the House on this issue as soon as possible?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

We are committed to strengthening protections for those at risk and to reducing harmful gambling. Levy commissioners are best placed to make decisions on the future of their work. I will ensure that the relevant Minister has heard my hon. Friend’s concerns and that he gets an update, but it will be a Minister from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, because that is the Department responsible for the implementation and oversight of the gambling levy.