The move comes as ministers continue with the government’s Gambling Act review, and are expected to produce a white paper at the end of 2021.
The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), a regulated industry group, is calling for the establishment of a gambling ombudsman as part of efforts to improve standards. They propose that all licensed betting and gaming operators should be legally required to join such a body.
Michael Dugher, the CEO of the BGC, expressed hope that the government will support their call for a gambling ombudsman. He emphasized the need for further industry change and believes that a new gambling ombudsman would enhance customer redress.
Conor Grant, CEO of Flutter UK and Ireland, echoed the support for the proposal, emphasizing the importance of an independent entity for customers to seek assistance in case of any issues.
The UK’s long-awaited review of the 2005 Gambling Act, released by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in December last year, aims to address various aspects, including advertising, stake limits, consumer protection, and more, both in land-based and online environments.
Industry stakeholders, including Tom Watson and the Social Market Foundation (SMF), have long advocated for the establishment of an industry ombudsman. The SMF’s proposal suggests splitting the Gambling Commission into two bodies, with a Gambling Licensing Authority responsible for license compliance and a Gambling Ombudsman dedicated to customer protection and affordability.
