Mandy Gill, the Director of Compliance for the Gambling Commission, recently addressed the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (BACTA) Social Responsibility Exchange. In her speech, she discussed various aspects of social responsibility in the gambling industry, highlighted both failures and successes, and outlined forthcoming changes.
Demonstrating Commitment to Responsibility:
Gill acknowledged that while the Gambling Commission often focuses on addressing issues and shortcomings, events like the BACTA Social Responsibility Exchange demonstrate the industry’s commitment to doing the right thing.
Policy on Financial Vulnerability Checks:
Gill clarified that financial vulnerability checks and risk assessments are specific to remote gambling and do not extend to land-based premises.
Changes to Online Non-Slots Casino Games:
Gill emphasized that changes in online non-slots casino games policies are applicable to remote gambling only and will not affect land-based establishments.
Age Verification:
Gill pointed out that there have been issues across the industry related to age verification. The Gambling Commission initiated a consultation on raising the age at which it becomes good practice for staff to challenge customers to verify their age, from 21 to 25. This change aligns with age requirements for other restricted products in the UK, such as alcohol and tobacco.
Voluntary Ban on Category D Slot Machines:
BACTA members voluntarily implemented a ban on under-18s using Category D slot machines with cash prizes. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) is considering legislation to make this ban mandatory.
Understanding Machine Categories:
The Gambling Commission categorizes gambling machines into four categories based on usage cost and maximum prize money. Category D machines are described as low-stake fruit machine-style machines, coin pushers, or crane grabs, commonly found in arcades and some casinos.
Mandy Gill’s speech at the BACTA Social Responsibility Exchange shed light on various aspects of social responsibility and industry regulations. It emphasized the industry’s commitment to responsible gambling practices and the forthcoming changes in age verification policies and Category D slot machines. These insights reflect the ongoing efforts to ensure the integrity of the gambling industry and protect consumers.