The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has announced that the rate of problem gambling in casino games recorded by the Gambling Commission is statistically 0.2%. The rates of moderate and low risk gambling remain stable at 0.9% and 1.4% respectively. Although the current problem gambling figure is lower than in the previous survey, the Commission states that the difference is not statistically significant.
BGC chief executive Michael Dugher believes that these newly released figures demonstrate positive progress in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of an evidence-based approach in the upcoming White Paper, urging ministers not to yield to pressure from anti-gambling groups. As Dugher argues, the decreasing trend in problem gambling should serve as a warning for future changes to be balanced, proportionate, and targeted.
It is worth noting that approximately 22.5 million adults in the UK engage in betting each month, and the majority do so responsibly and safely. However, Dugher highlights the challenge posed by the increasing use of black market sites in the country. According to a PWC report, black market gambling in the UK may have doubled over a two-year period. Dugher also points out that countries with strict product restrictions, like France and Norway, tend to have higher levels of unlicensed play.
Dugher emphasizes that the regulated betting and gaming industry is committed to promoting safer gambling, unlike the unregulated online black market, which lacks the safeguards implemented by BGC members.
