Yesterday the Gambling Commission announced that its new Head Office will be at Victoria Square House in Birmingham, describing the location as a stunning building in the very heart of the city. Following the Lyons review, public sector bodies are increasingly moving outside London and the Gambling Commission is to commence its move to Birmingham next January and complete it by June.

The Gaming Board for Great Britain, replaced by the Gambling Commission at the beginning of October, was based in London. The announcement earlier this year that its successor would be moved out of London initially brought much protest, as the capital city has the most casinos with the greatest revenue. The Commission Chief Executive, Jenny Williams, commented, “Birmingham has a thriving professional services sector, a substantial labour pool and a central location.”

Under the Gambling Act 2005, the independent watchdog for gambling in Britain will grow from around 70 to 250 staff and take on increased responsibilities. It will have staff in the field around the country as well as at its Birmingham Head Office. The Gambling Commission will operate with significant new legal powers to monitor the industry and issue new codes of practice. The core objectives of the Commission are to ensure gambling operations in Britain remain crime free and conducted fairly and openly, and that children and vulnerable people are protected. (E-11.15.05)

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