The much-anticipated review of the 2005 Gambling Act has officially been launched, following confirmation by Oliver Dowden, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Consumer safeguards and protecting players online are expected to be at the heart of the review, which brings the legislation in this country up to date with the digital age.
In terms of safeguards, stake limits and spending capacity are likely to be the tools that are strengthened in order to elevate safety within UK gambling.
Commenting on the review, Dowden said: “Whilst millions gamble responsibly, the Gambling Act is an analogue law in a digital age. From an era of having a flutter in a high street bookmaker, casino, racecourse or seaside pier, the industry has evolved at breakneck speed.
“This comprehensive review will ensure we are tackling problem gambling in all its forms to protect children and vulnerable people. It will also help those who enjoy placing a bet to do so safely.
“This builds upon our clear track record of introducing tough measures to protect people from the risk of gambling harm – banning the use of credit cards, launching tighter age verification checks and cutting the maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals.”
It sees the Prime Minister follow through on one of his key manifesto pledges from the 2019 General Election.
Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage, commented: “We’re committed to protecting young people from gambling-related harm which is why we are raising the minimum age for the National Lottery.
“Patterns of play have changed since its inception, with a shift towards online games, and this change will help make sure the National Lottery, although already low-risk, is not a gateway to problem gambling.”
The review of the Gambling Act will likely bring with it a number of sweeping changes for the industry which will have ramifications for sports teams, sponsorship agreements and regulatory oversight of the industry.
