Data released by the Gambling Commission confirmed that the problem gambling rate in Britain for the year ending on December 31, 2022, was 0.2%, showing a decrease from the previous year’s rate of 0.3%. This information is significant as the government prepares to publish its highly anticipated white paper on gambling reforms in the near future. Michael Dugher, the CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), emphasized the importance of considering this decline in problem gambling rates when formulating new laws. He reiterated that the legislation should be focused on assisting the players who are most at risk.
Dugher stated, “These newly released figures provide further proof of the positive progress made in promoting safer gambling. They also support our urgent call for ministers to approach the upcoming white paper in a truly evidence-based manner. These statistics that demonstrate a decrease in problem gambling are undoubtedly disappointing for anti-gambling prohibitionists who tend to exaggerate the issue. Their sensational demands lack substantiated evidence. We advocate for substantial changes, but they should be directed towards the small minority vulnerable to harm, rather than negatively impacting the majority who engage in gambling responsibly and safely. A risk-based approach that safeguards the vulnerable without harming the responsible majority is crucial.”
Dugher also emphasized the importance of avoiding legislation that could potentially stimulate the growth of the black market for gambling. He expressed concerns regarding the implementation of blanket affordability checks, as this could have detrimental effects on the industry, players, and the entire British economy. He highlighted that nearly half of all UK adults engage in betting each month, and the overwhelming majority of them do so responsibly. Dugher stressed the ongoing efforts to elevate standards within the regulated industry and maintain the progress achieved in recent years.
He emphasized the contrasting commitment of the regulated betting and gaming industry in promoting safer gambling in comparison to the unsafe and unregulated online black market, which lacks the safeguards common among BGC members. Dugher urged ministers to avoid driving customers towards the black market by imposing comprehensive, invasive affordability checks on all punters. Instead, he suggested utilizing technology to target individuals at risk. While welcoming the positive figures, Dugher emphasized the refusal to become complacent and the dedicated mission to continually improve standards.
