UKGC Launches Consultations on Gambling Act Review Proposals

The gambling regulator in the UK, the Gambling Commission, announced the launch of consultations regarding the proposed changes following the review of the Gambling Act in the country. The consultations launched Wednesday and will run for 12 weeks. During that time, the Commission asks gambling operators, health experts, consumers and other groups involved in the sector to submit their opinion regarding key changes that seek to improve the regulated gambling sector. Ultimately, the proposals seek to make the UK gambling industry safer, fairer and free from crime.

Stuart Andrew, the country’s Gambling Minister, explained that the proposed changes to the gambling regulation seek to make the new rules suitable for the digital era. Additionally, he explained that the government seeks to ensure customers that enjoy gambling responsibly to continue doing so while protecting at-risk or vulnerable people from gambling harm. Andrew added: “These consultations give people a chance to have their say and I encourage everyone to make their voice heard.”

“We are updating our decades old gambling laws to make them fit for the smartphone era.“

Stuart Andrew, Gambling Minister

The recently launched consultations will seek the opinion of consumers, gambling companies and industry stakeholders within four strategic areas. Those include proposals for strengthening age verification for land-based gambling venues and improving customer choice on direct marketing. Moreover, the Commission seeks opinions regarding the design of remote games and financial risk and vulnerability.

In addition to the aforementioned areas, the Commission seeks input regarding proposals that call for the implementation of personal management licenses for employees that hold management-level roles. Separately, the regulator would consult on proposals “relating to the composition and decision-making processes of the Commission’s Regulatory Panels.”

Changes to the Gambling Sector Are Imminent

The launch of the consultation comes after the gambling regulator touched on the topic of cashout issues for bettors. The Commission’s director of communications, Lucy Denton, recently explained that operators should never obstruct customers from withdrawing their funds. Yet, she added that the application of specific restrictions related to depositing is something that may be implemented.

“We are pleased to now focus consultation and engagement on the detail of how such protections and controls can be implemented in practice.“

Tim Miller, executive director for research and policy at the Gambling Commission

Focusing once again on the consultations, the regulator’s executive director for research and policy, Tim Miller, highlighted the importance of input from consumers and gambling companies. “These consultations offer the opportunity for people to have their say on proposals aimed at empowering and protecting consumers,” he said.

Miller explained that some of the proposals have already seen plenty of engagement. Finally, he explained that the launch of the consultations represents a milestone moment for the changes in gambling regulations in the country.