The UK government’s newly proposed gambling reforms, featuring a mandatory levy and stake limits on online slot games, have drawn a range of reactions from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). The industry group confirmed its support for the regulatory changes mentioned in the 2023 White Paper but criticised the tone of the new measures, warning that they could harm important industry progress and data.
BGC CEO emphasises the need for a balanced approach
BGC CEO Grainne Hurst emphasised the need to keep a balanced view on gambling habits in the UK. She stated, “Ministers must not lose sight of the fact the vast majority of the 22.5 million people who enjoy a bet each month, on the lottery, in bookmakers, casinos, bingo halls and online do so safely, while the most recent NHS Health Survey for England estimated that just 0.4 percent of the adult population are problem gamblers.”
Hurst continued, “The tone of this announcement indicates that the Government may be losing sight of these facts and instead following the agenda of anti-gambling prohibitionists, which ultimately benefits no one.”
The announcement comes after the BGC launched its Code Handbook, which features over 100 voluntary measures aimed at improving industry standards. These measures include a “whistle-to-whistle” ban on TV betting ads during live sports and a requirement for 20 percent of promotions to focus on promoting safer gambling. The initiatives are part of the BGC’s ongoing efforts to upgrade responsible gambling practices across the sector.
The BGC reports that its members have invested over £170 million ($214 million) in addressing gambling-related harm over the past four years, including £50 million ($63 million) in 2024 alone. This funding has been allocated to support a network of independent charities that offers treatment and care to the majority of problem gamblers in the UK. These efforts highlight the industry’s commitment to addressing gambling harm, with a focus on providing essential support and resources for individuals affected by gambling addiction.
The organisation also pointed out the rising risk of unregulated gambling operators, estimating that 1.5 million people in the UK are currently gambling on unregulated platforms that are without safety measures. The BGC cautioned that overly strict regulations on licensed operators might push more consumers to these unregulated sites, potentially weakening efforts to protect consumers.
The BGC recognised the importance of addressing problem gambling, but policymakers to base reforms on solid evidence and maintain a balanced approach to protect jobs, economic contributions, and consumer safety. The council emphasised that association, rather than overly harsh measures, would be crucial in creating a sustainable and responsible gambling sector.
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