BGC Voices Concerns Over UK Government’s Gambling Reform Plans
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has issued a measured response to the UK Government’s recent announcement of a mandatory levy and stake limits for online slots, reiterating its support for the reforms laid out in last year’s White Paper. However, the BGC has cautioned against adopting a tone that could misrepresent the broader realities of the gambling industry.
Industry Contributions and Concerns
Highlighting the millions of Britons who gamble responsibly each month, Grainne Hurst, CEO of the BGC, remarked:
“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. The most recent NHS Health Survey for England estimated that just 0.4% of the adult population are problem gamblers.”
The BGC emphasized the sector’s proactive efforts to address gambling-related harm, noting that its members have collectively invested over £170m ($214m) in such initiatives over the past four years, including £50m in 2024 alone. These funds support an independent network of charities providing care to the majority of problem gamblers currently in treatment.
Despite this, the BGC expressed unease about the tone of the Government’s announcement, with Hurst adding:
“The tone of this announcement suggests the Government is at risk of losing perspective of these facts while simply dancing to the tune of anti-gambling prohibitionists, which serves no one.”
Balancing Regulation with Market Realities
The BGC reiterated its commitment to raising industry standards and protecting consumers, pointing to its recently launched Code Handbook, which consolidates over 100 voluntary measures. Key initiatives include:
- A “whistle-to-whistle” ban on TV betting advertisements during live sports.
- Allocating 20% of advertising budgets to safer gambling messaging.
However, the Council warned of the growing threat posed by the illegal gambling market, estimating that 1.5 million Brits engage with unregulated platforms that lack safety protocols. This, the BGC argued, underscores the need for a balanced, evidence-driven regulatory approach.
Preserving Jobs, Revenue, and Consumer Safety
While supporting reforms that address problem gambling, the BGC urged policymakers to consider the regulated sector’s contributions to jobs, tax revenue, and consumer safety. Hurst noted:
“Sweeping reforms must not jeopardize the ability of licensed operators to compete against unregulated platforms, which pose the greatest risk to vulnerable players.”
The BGC called for collaboration between the Government, industry, and stakeholders to ensure reforms effectively balance consumer protection with industry sustainability. The council’s response reflects its ongoing commitment to safeguarding both players and the regulated market’s future.
As the debate over gambling regulation continues, the BGC has positioned itself as a champion for evidence-based policies that protect players without undermining a sector that supports thousands of jobs and significant economic contributions in the UK.