The UK Government has unveiled a White Paper proposing a series of stricter measures to regulate the gambling industry. The proposed changes aim to address concerns surrounding gambling-related harm, particularly in online gambling. The key proposals include stricter financial checks on customers, potential stake limits for online slot games, and increased limitations for the 18-24 age group. Additionally, the White Paper suggests changes to the number of machines in casinos, potential legalization of sports betting in all casinos, and the introduction of a gambling ombudsman. The government also plans to implement a statutory levy to support treatment, education, and research into gambling harms.
Stricter Financial Checks and Stake Limits:
Under the proposed legislation, operators will be required to conduct stricter financial checks on customers. Checks will be triggered by specific net loss thresholds, such as £125 net loss within a month or £500 net loss within a year. The strictest checks will be implemented at £1,000 net loss per day or £2,000 net loss within 90 days. The White Paper also suggests the introduction of stake limits for online slot games, with the proposed range being between £2 and £15. Additionally, there may be specific limitations for the 18-24 age group, such as a £2 stake limit.
Changes to Machine Limits and Sports Betting:
The White Paper proposes changes to the number of machines allowed in casinos, raising the upper limit from 20 to 80. Furthermore, sports betting may be legalized in all casinos, expanding beyond the select casinos licensed under the 2005 Act. The paper also suggests potential adjustments to the machine ratio, with a 50/50 split between low and medium-maximum stake machines.
Enhanced Data Sharing and Marketing Practices:
Operators will be expected to share data on high-risk customers with one another to mitigate the risk of gambling harm. Additionally, changes will be made to how bonuses and free bets are marketed to reduce social harm. The White Paper highlights the introduction of a statutory levy to be paid directly to the Gambling Commission, separate from the proposed Horserace Betting Levy, to support treatment, education, and research related to gambling harms.
Gambling Ombudsman and Player-Centric Tools:
To address customer disputes over social responsibility failures, the White Paper proposes the introduction of a gambling ombudsman. This ombudsman would handle complaints regarding customer losses due to operator failures in promoting responsible gambling. The government also emphasizes the need for player-centric tools, education, changes to cashless payment systems, reduced risk for individuals under 18, and revised premises license fees.
The UK Government’s White Paper outlines a series of proposed measures aimed at regulating the gambling industry more effectively and reducing the risk of gambling-related harm. Stricter financial checks, potential stake limits, and enhanced data sharing among operators are some of the key proposals. The paper also suggests changes to machine limits, the potential legalization of sports betting in all casinos, and the introduction of a gambling ombudsman. The proposed statutory levy would provide funding for treatment, education, and research into gambling harms. The government’s focus on player protection, responsible gambling practices, and the reduction of social harm reflects a proactive approach to create a safer gambling environment in the UK.