The Culture Secretary has launched a wide ranging review of the current gambling legislation to consider online stake and spend limits, advertising and marketing rules and the powers of the Gambling Commission.

The Government said it “wants all those who choose to gamble in Great Britain to be able to do so in a safe way” stating the aim of the review is to ensure “up to date legislation and protections, with a strong regulator with the powers and resources needed to oversee a responsible industry that offers customer choice, protects players, provides employment, and contributes to the economy.”

Objectives of the Review

The government is reviewing the Gambling Act (2005) to ensure our regulatory framework can protect children and vulnerable people, prevent gambling related crime, and keep gambling fair and open in the digital age. Through this Review, the government’s objectives are to:

• Examine whether changes are needed to the system of gambling regulation in Great Britain to reflect changes to the gambling landscape since 2005, particularly due to technological advances
• Ensure there is an appropriate balance between consumer freedoms and choice on the one hand, and prevention of harm to vulnerable groups and wider communities on the other
• Make sure customers are suitably protected whenever and wherever they are gambling, and that there is an equitable approach to the regulation of the online and the land based industries.

IoL response to the Call for Evidence

The IoL is surveying members to gather views which will inform its response to the Call for Evidence.