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The UK Gambling Minister, Paul Scully, has announced that the long-awaited white paper on revisions of the Gambling Act could be published in the next few weeks. Speaking at the Betting and Gaming Council’s annual general meeting, Scully emphasized the need to balance both industry and consumer interests in the white paper.
Several Delays Sparked Outrage
The publication of the white paper has been delayed several times due to changes in government, but Downing Street may now step in to advise on revisions of the document if it is not deemed satisfactory. The minister has also warned that the publication of the white paper will not be the end of the process and will be followed by further consultations led by the DCMS and the Gambling Commission.Scully acknowledged the significant benefits to the UK economy and treasury brought by the gambling sector but also emphasized the need to ensure regulations effectively protect people from harm. The minister commended actions taken by the industry to address risks but noted that the Gambling Act review was a historic opportunity to make sure the balance was right.
Concern over Affordability Checks
The minister also addressed concerns about affordability checks, stating that it was not the role of the government to determine how much customers could spend on gambling. He suggested a change in language for affordability checks to “financial risk” checks.In conclusion, the UK Gambling Act white paper is expected to be released in the next few weeks, and the gambling industry is expected to stay engaged as policies are refined, finalised, and implemented. The minister’s message was clear – the government’s goal is to balance industry and consumer interests and ensure the regulations effectively protect people from harm.