Nick Rust is set to step down as chair of the Gambling Commission’s industry forum later this year, after two years of service.
He will depart the role in November, citing upcoming commitments as the reason for his exit, as he would not be able to deliver the required time and commitments.
The former chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) voiced frustration on the perception of gambling in public debate, also commenting on how the forum had undertaken important dialogue with the regulator.
“The commission has not frustrated me but the public discourse about gambling, and the pressure on the commission around the policy that emerges from that, it can be frustrating.” – Nick Rust, Gambling Commission industry forum chair
Back in 2023, the Gambling Commission initiated the industry forum to provide a vehicle for communication with the industry. The body comprised members and executives from the sector, tasked with providing feedback from the industry on the commission’s plans and remit, as well as discussing the overall gambling landscape.
Rust believes his tenure has been a productive one, with mutual progress achieved.
He stated, “I’ve got some other commitments which mean I am going to be pretty busy over this winter, which meant I felt I couldn’t give it enough time, that was the main reason [for stepping down].
“I think the commission has got a very tough job on, I think they are under-resourced and they are doing lots of good work but the public policy discourse with regard to gambling does frustrate me at times. I have found myself feeling that I should be lobbying on behalf of the industry when actually my role is to provide advice and guidance to the commission.
Rust, continued, “The commission has not frustrated me but the public discourse about gambling, and the pressure on the commission around the policy that emerges from that, it can be frustrating.”
New chair to be appointed to the industry forum in due course
Nick Rust highlighted the crucial work that the Commission is undertaking to address challenges from the unregulated black market, with customer protection responsibilities at the forefront of the drive.
He vowed to carry on his duties fully through to November, with “plenty to do” over the next five months.
The Gambling Commission is expected to announce a new chair for the industry forum in due course, while chief executive Andrew Rhodes paid tribute to the incumbent:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with both Nick and the forum over the last two years. Nick has been such a valuable sounding board, a constant fount of knowledge and insight and a great support to me personally,” sad Rhodes.
Image credit: Gambling Commission
