After new figures revealed that problem gambling rates have fallen in Great Britain, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), has praised the industry’s efforts but stated that standards need to continue to rise.
The Gambling Commission released data that confirmed Britain’s problem gambling rate at 0.2% in the year ended 31/12/2022, compared with 0.3% the previous year.
These statistics are available ahead of the publication by the government of its highly-anticipated whitepaper on gambling reforms. This is expected to be published in the near future.
Michael Dugher, chief executive of BGC, stated that the government should consider the decline in problem gambling rates when enacting new laws. He reiterated his earlier comments about how legislation should be tailored to assist those most at risk.
Dugher stated that the newly released numbers are a further indication of the positive progress made in safer gambling. He also stressed the need for ministers to adopt a truly evidence-based approach to the white paper.
Anti-gambling prohibitionists who tend to exaggerate the problem will be disappointed to see these figures.
Their alarmist demands do not have any support from the evidence. We are seeking big changes but must focus on the small number of people who are most at risk and not the large majority who gamble responsibly and safely. We need a risk-based approach that helps the vulnerable and not destroys the experience for the rest of us.
Dugher stated that legislation that could lead to an increase of black market gambling, such as blanket affordability checks should be avoided by the government, as this could have a negative impact on the industry, players, and the British economy.
Dugher stated that just under half of UK adults bet every month. It is evident, however, that the vast majority do it safely and responsibly. “However, we will continue to work to raise standards in the regulated sector to maintain the momentum and build upon the achievements of recent years.
“The regulated gaming and betting industry is determined promote safer gambling, as opposed to the growing, unregulated, and unsafe online black market which lacks the same safeguards that are common among BGC members.
“Ministers shouldn’t drive customers to the black market with blanket low-level intrusive affordability checks that all punters must pass, but instead use technology to identify those most at risk.
“We are pleased with these numbers, but we refuse to be complacent. We will continue to push for higher standards.”
