Celebrating Sport and Partnership at Conservative Party Conference

The Betting and Gaming Council was proud to support this year’s Conservatives in Sport Drinks Reception at the Conservative Party Conference, hosted at the iconic Manchester 235 Casino.

The event brought together a wide range of guests from across sport, politics, and business, highlighting the vital role that collaboration plays in supporting British sport and the communities it serves.

The evening provided an opportunity to reflect on the strength of partnerships between government, industry, and sport, and the importance of maintaining a balanced, evidence-led approach to policy.

During the evening, thanks were extended to a number of Parliamentarians who have been long-standing champions of sport and the regulated betting and gaming sector. Special recognition went to Nigel Huddleston MP, the new Chair of Conservatives in Sport and Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. Nigel’s experience as a former Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage, where he oversaw both sport and gambling, was praised, particularly his contribution to the Gambling White Paper, which continues to underpin important reforms for the industry.

Louie French MP was warmly thanked for his tireless advocacy on behalf of a regulated and responsible industry that supports jobs, protects players, and funds sport at every level. A huge thank you also went to Alex Oswald and the team at Manchester 235 Casino for hosting such a fantastic evening. A fitting setting for a celebration of sport, community, and partnership.

Every year, BGC members provide £350 million to British horseracing, £40 million to the English Football League, and over £12.5 million to other sports, including darts, snooker, and rugby league. This funding sustains clubs, nurtures emerging talent, and helps keep sport thriving in communities across the country.

The Betting and Gaming Council never forget that sport is more than competition, it’s the heartbeat of towns, cities, and villages across the UK. It inspires pride, creates opportunity, and brings people together in ways few other things can. The evening served as a timely reminder of what can be achieved when government, industry, and sport work together.

Networks like Conservatives in Sport continue to play a vital role in shaping policy, promoting balanced regulation, and championing the shared goal of ensuring sport continues to inspire and unite communities nationwide.

Commenting on the event, BGC CEO Grainne Hurst said: “It was fantastic to see so many friends and supporters from across sport, politics, and business come together at this year’s Conservatives in Sport reception. The regulated betting and gaming industry is proud to play its part in supporting British sport, from grassroots clubs to professional leagues, and we’re committed to working in partnership with government and policymakers to ensure that sport continues to thrive.

"Events like this are an important reminder of the power of collaboration and the shared responsibility we have to protect jobs, fund communities, and sustain the sports we all love.”