For many, gambling can be entertaining but the Government recognises that it can also become a serious problem. While we all want a healthy gambling industry that makes an important economic contribution, and which brings enjoyment to its consumers, we must also protect those that use it from harm.
The Government appreciates concerns over the impact of the Gambling Commission’s consultation, specifically in regard to affordability checks. The proposals focused on more prescriptive requirements for operators to identify and intervene with customers who may be at risk of harm. This included a specific process for assessing affordability and particular consideration will be given to the spending/loss threshold at which it might be proportionate to require operators to complete affordability checks.
The Gambling Commission's report can be found online at: https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/strategy/raising-standards-for-consumers-compliance-and-enforcement-report-2019-20/triggers-and-customer-affordability.
As you will see, in response to evidence showing some gamblers may be at greater risk of harm during lockdown, the Commission published new guidance for online operators to help reduce the risk of harm in these unprecedented circumstances.
You may also welcome that the Government committed to striking the right balance between freedom of choice and protection from harm while reviewing the Gambling Act 2005, and will set out its findings in due course.
