A group of campaigners in the UK are urging the government to impose stricter regulations on gambling advertising. The calls for reform were made at a summit held in Westminster, London, where politicians, campaigners, and sports figures gathered to discuss the issue.
Peers for Gambling Reform, an association of members of the UK’s upper house, led the charge for increased restrictions on the gambling industry. They called on Lisa Nandy, the Labour government’s culture secretary, to take action and impose new limitations on gambling advertising.
One of the prominent figures at the summit was Iain Duncan Smith, the former leader of the opposition Conservative Party. Smith referenced a poll showing majority support for a blanket ban on all gambling advertising in the UK. He emphasized the need for politicians to align with public opinion on this issue.
Smith also advocated for further restrictions on gambling operators, such as outlawing inducements and limiting advertising in sports. He highlighted the Premier League’s decision to voluntarily end kit sponsorship by betting companies as a positive step in the right direction.
Soccer commentator Clive Tyldesley shared his personal experience of leaving a job due to the excessive promotion of gambling companies. The event shed light on the growing concerns surrounding gambling advertising and its impact on society.
The UK has been known for its liberal gambling laws, with former Prime Minister Tony Blair loosening restrictions on advertising in 2005. However, there has been a shift towards tighter regulations in recent years, with increasing calls for reform.
A government white paper published in 2023 proposed various reforms, including stricter advertising restrictions. While the Conservative government at the time rejected these proposals, there are ongoing trials for affordability checks to assess if customers can afford to gamble.
The current Labour administration has not put forth any concrete proposals for gambling reform, but they have expressed a commitment to protecting individuals and families from the harmful effects of gambling. The government recognizes the need to strengthen protections for those at risk of developing gambling-related issues.
Overall, the summit highlighted the pressing need for action on gambling advertising regulations in the UK. Campaigners, politicians, and sports figures are calling for stricter measures to address the growing concerns surrounding the industry’s impact on society.