The Gambling Review Will Have a Moderate to Significant Impact on the Gambling Industry
The gambling industry has been opposed to many of the reforms that have been proposed to improve the regulation of gambling. This has prevented the government from tackling the problems associated with the industry. Some reformers have advocated a voluntary levy as a solution to gambling-related problems. Others have been more aggressive in their calls for reform, with the goal of limiting gambling’s negative impact on society.
As the UK has been struggling with the pandemic of gambling-related problems, the government has announced a review of the Gambling Act 2005. Although the government originally stated that the review would be completed by December 2020, the pandemic has continued for longer than expected. And a reshuffle in the Department for Digital, Culture and Sport has delayed the review. However, it is now expected that the review will have a moderate to significant impact on the gambling industry.
The government is also acknowledging that gambling has public health implications. As such, the Gambling Commission is working to improve the treatment of gambling-related harms. This includes tighter regulations on operators and affordability checks. It is also examining proposals to change the way online slots games are designed. The government is considering a number of measures to make the gambling industry a better place for everyone.
In September 2017, Chris Philp, the former gambling minister, resigned from his position. This delay was due to the fact that he wanted more time to review the review. He also wanted to give his successors the same opportunity. Despite his resignation, the gambling review is still in process. There is a white paper in the making that will set out the proposed changes.
The government has said that the gambling review will be published by December 2020. It has promised to update the legislation to be fit for the digital age. However, the political turmoil in Westminster has delayed the review. MPs are now worried that advisers with ties to the gambling industry could hinder reform proposals or dilute them.
The current regulatory framework is designed to protect consumers and to set clear rules for operators. In some cases, the government can impose a fine or suspend or revoke a licence if a company is not complying with the regulations. The government is seeking evidence on consumer redress arrangements and other alternatives.