The UK government is in a state of turmoil after more than 50 MPs resigned in the revolt against Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s actions, which in turn led to the resignation of Johnson a couple of weeks ago.
Voluntary Ban on Front of Shirt Sponsorship
Due to Boris Johnson’s resignation, the gambling act reform has been delayed once again, leading Premier League Football Clubs to agree to a voluntary ban on shirt sponsorship by gambling companies.It was reported the white paper which has been delayed for the fourth time may have contained legislation that outright banned betting companies sponsoring PL football clubs, but it seems this may not be the case.Lobby groups and anti-gambling bodies are painting gambling overall as a negative activity and driving a wedge between sport and sports betting, an activity enjoyed by the majority of people in a safe, unharmful manner.
Mandatory Ban Not Necessary
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sports (DCMS) discuss a ban on sports betting sponsorship in great lengths but concluded a mandatory ban was not necessary, opting for a voluntary ban which is soon to launch.Seven top-flight teams in the Premier League have front-of-shirt sponsorship with betting operators, with others yet to disclose who their sponsors will be for the coming season.If the ban was implemented the front of shirt advertising would be banned but clubs could still wear sponsorship logos on sleeves, something that should pacify anti-gambling groups and regulators.The white paper which is long overdue will not be disclosed until a new PM is elected in September 2022. The current white paper may change again after a new PM is elected and replacements for the MPs who resigned would have an input.