The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has responded to the UK government's statement on mandatory taxation and betting limits on online slots, emphasizing its support for the reforms outlined in last year's white paper.
However, the organization expressed concerns about its tone and manner, believing it could overlook key industry facts.
BGC CEO Grainne Hurst stated: "Ministers cannot ignore the fact that out of the 22.5 million people who gamble monthly in lotteries, betting shops, casinos, bingo halls, and online gambling, the vast majority do so safely, and the latest UK NHS health survey estimates that only 0.4% of the adult population are problem gamblers."
It is worth noting: BGC pointed out that its members have collectively invested over £170 million ($214 million) in the past four years to address gambling-related harms, including £50 million for 2024. Reportedly, these funds support a network of independent charities that provide care for most problem gamblers currently receiving treatment in the UK.
Hurst added: "The tone of this statement suggests that the government might overlook these facts and merely listen to the tune of anti-gambling bans, which benefits no one."
Previously, the UK Gambling Commission released a 'Codebook' compiling over 100 voluntary measures aimed at raising industry standards. These measures include a "total ban" on TV gambling ads during live sports events and allocating 20% of ad placements for safer gambling messages.
While acknowledging the importance of reforms, the UK Gambling Commission also pointed out the increasing threat of unregulated operators, estimating that 1.5 million Britons use platforms that do not comply with safety protocols.
The commission urges policymakers to prioritize the development of balanced, evidence-based regulations to address gambling issues while maintaining the regulated industry's ability to support jobs, revenue, and consumer safety.
