The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has highlighted the potential risks associated with compulsory spending limits on betting, as indicated by a recent YouGov survey. The study found that a majority of punters believe such limits could drive people towards unregulated gambling sites, potentially leading to an increase in problem gambling rates. Additionally, the survey revealed resistance to the idea of regulated betting firms conducting compulsory affordability checks. As the government prepares to publish its White Paper on gambling reforms, the BGC emphasizes the importance of targeted measures to protect vulnerable individuals without pushing responsible gamblers towards unsafe, unregulated platforms.
Survey Findings and Concerns:
According to the YouGov survey conducted for the BGC, 67% of punters expressed concerns that compulsory spending limits on betting could lead more individuals to turn to unregulated gambling sites. Additionally, 64% believed that the increased use of illegal sites would result in higher problem gambling rates. These findings underscore the potential unintended consequences of restrictive measures that may push gamblers towards unscrupulous and unregulated platforms.
Resistance to Compulsory Affordability Checks:
The survey revealed that nearly 70% of bettors would not be willing to allow regulated betting firms to conduct compulsory affordability checks to ensure they can afford to wager. This stance opposes the calls made by anti-gambling campaigners who advocate for such checks as a means of curbing problem gambling. The resistance to compulsory affordability checks suggests the importance of finding alternative ways to protect vulnerable individuals without alienating responsible gamblers.
Focus on Illegal Gambling Sites:
The BGC emphasized the presence of thousands of illegal gambling websites that operate outside the stringent regulations and standards of the regulated sector. These illicit sites often target problem gamblers, lack proper identification and verification processes, and fail to provide essential safer gambling tools like deposit limits and cooling-off periods. The BGC’s support for the Gambling Review demonstrates its commitment to raising standards and promoting safer gambling in an evidence-led manner.
Balancing Protection and Access:
BGC Chief Executive Michael Dugher stressed the need for targeted measures that protect vulnerable individuals while avoiding unintended consequences. He acknowledged the importance of intervening when signs of harm are evident but cautioned against implementing blanket spending checks that could drive responsible punters towards the unsafe black market online. Maintaining a balance between player protection and preserving access to safe and regulated platforms is essential.
The YouGov survey commissioned by the BGC highlights the potential risks associated with compulsory spending limits on betting and resistance to regulated firms conducting affordability checks. These findings serve as a reminder that arbitrary measures could inadvertently drive gamblers towards unregulated sites and increase problem gambling rates. As the government prepares to release its White Paper on gambling reforms, the BGC advocates for targeted interventions that safeguard vulnerable individuals without pushing responsible gamblers towards unsafe platforms. Striking a balance between player protection and accessibility to regulated operators is crucial to ensure the well-being of gamblers and the integrity of the industry.