Flutter appoints former Labour Party deputy leader Tom Watson as adviser

The parent company of Paddy Power and Sky Bet has brought in former Labour Party deputy leader Tom Watson to advise them on safer gambling best practice.

Flutter Entertainment said Watson's role would be to "bring a fresh and robust voice" to the company and that he would be "immersing himself in Flutter’s business", looking at staff training, marketing and safer gambling operations.

Flutter chief executive Peter Jackson said: "Bringing in someone with Tom’s gambling reform background is an important part of my commitment to lead the industry’s race to the top.

"We have to work harder than ever before to find a way to continue to bring great products and brands to our customers while always having the need to protect the vulnerable clearly in mind.

"Tom will hold a mirror up to help us make sure we are getting this balance right and I welcome the opportunity to work with him and hear what he has to say in the coming months."

Watson, who stepped down as an MP at the general election in December, has long been a campaigner for gambling reform.

He said of his new role: "I have a long-standing interest in this sector and consistently called for action to protect those who may be potentially vulnerable to harm.

"In taking on this role in Flutter, I intend to get under the bonnet of the business – and the industry more widely – to understand how best to further develop and implement industry-leading responsible gambling policies.

"I strongly believe that working collaboratively with Flutter in this way will allow me to continue to drive positive change."

Watson's former Labour Party colleague Michael Dugher also holds a position in the gambling industry as chief executive of the Betting and Gaming Council.

The sector is waiting for the government to announce details of its long-awaited review of the 2005 Gambling Act.

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