BGC raises concerns over UK Government’s approach to gambling reforms
The Betting and Gaming Council supports proposed reforms but warns against losing perspective on problem gambling prevalence and industry contributions.
Key points:
– BGC supports mandatory levy and stake limits proposed in the White Paper
– Members have contributed over £170m to address gambling-related harm since 2020
– Concerns raised over the UK Government’s yielding to anti-gambling advocacy without balanced measures
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has responded to the UK Government’s announcement regarding mandatory levy and stake limits on online slots, emphasising its support for reforms outlined in last year’s White Paper.
However, the organisation expressed concerns over its tone and approach, suggesting it risks losing sight of key industry facts.
Grainne Hurst, BGC CEO, said: “Ministers must not lose sight of the fact the vast majority of the 22.5 million people who enjoy a bet each month, on the lottery, in bookmakers, casinos, bingo halls and online do so safely, while the most recent NHS Health Survey for England estimated that just 0.4% of the adult population are problem gamblers.”
Good to know: The BGC noted that its members have collectively invested over £170m ($214m) in addressing gambling-related harm over the past four years, including £50m in 2024. These funds reportedly support an independent network of charities that provide care to the majority of problem gamblers currently receiving treatment in the UK.
Hurst added: “The tone of this announcement suggests the Government is at risk of losing perspective of these facts while simply dancing to the tune of anti-gambling prohibitionists, which serves no one.”
The announcement follows the BGC’s launch of its Code Handbook, which compiles over 100 voluntary measures designed to raise industry standards. These measures include a “whistle-to-whistle” ban on TV betting advertisements during live sports and allocating 20% of advertising to safer gambling messaging.
While the BGC acknowledged the importance of reforms, it also pointed to the growing threat of unregulated operators, with an estimated 1.5 million Brits engaging with illegal platforms that do not adhere to safety protocols.
The council urged policymakers to prioritise balanced, evidence-based regulations that address problem gambling while preserving the regulated industry’s ability to support jobs, revenue and consumer safety.
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