Star Sports has named former MP Sir Philip Davies as its new Chairman, succeeding Russ Wiseman. Davies will become Chairman of Star Sports following his retirement from the House of Commons after 20 years as a Conservative Party MP. The former MP for Shipley represented the marginal West Yorkshire area in four general elections before being beaten this summer by Labour’s Anna Dixon.
Davies was a prominent champion for the gambling industry as an MP, emphasizing its position as a significant employer in local communities as well as his support for UK Racing’s rural network and legacy.
During debates on the Gambling Review’s White Paper, Davies criticized the introduction of £125 and £500 net-loss affordability checks, portraying them as a threat to UK racing and stated, “The proposals by the Gambling Commission are completely unacceptable.”
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Davies, a supporter of the TaxPayers’ Alliance and The Freedom Association, has long advocated for the return of classical liberal ideas to the Conservative Party, frequently challenging policies and laws supported by his party’s leaders and MPs.
Davies stated, “I am thrilled to be joining Star Sports at such an exciting time in the company’s history.” I’ve been lucky to get to know Ben [Keith] over the last five years, and I admire the company he’s developed.
“Many people are unaware that I began working at my mother’s betting shop (Marilyn Davies Bookmakers), therefore the industry runs deep in my blood. I’m excited to collaborate closely with Ben and his management team to advance the group’s growth strategy while maintaining its commitment to operating ethically.”
Star Sports founder Ben Keith expressed gratitude to Russ Wiseman for serving as the company’s first Chairman: “I want to thank Russ Wiseman for the personal and professional support he has offered over the previous two years. I completely appreciate his decision to stand down and wish him a speedy recovery. I look forward to continuing Star’s successful collaboration with Russ in 2025.”
Keith continued, “We are happy to announce Philip as our new Chairman. His extensive expertise makes him an invaluable addition to our senior management team, and we look forward to learning from him in the future years.“
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