Lord Don Foster of Bath, chairman of Peers for Gambling Reform, has emphasized the need for the British gaming industry to prioritize legal compliance. In a recent episode of InnovateChange ‘s Gambling Review Podcast, Foster acknowledged the industry’s efforts in reducing gambling harms but expressed concern that these changes were being implemented “as a last resort”. He believes that the industry’s response is reactionary rather than driven by a genuine desire to raise standards.
Foster commended the industry’s formation of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), which has introduced measures such as increased spending on research, education, and treatment, as well as limited restrictions on advertising. However, he notes that there is still room for improvement and urges the industry to go further in addressing the issues at hand.
As part of the House of Lords group, Foster contributed to a set of proposals for the upcoming review of the Gambling Act. These proposals encompass stake limits and a ban on gambling sponsorship in sports. Foster is optimistic that the review will consider many of the concerns outlined in the report. He is also pleased that the Gambling Commission has already begun examining related issues, such as loot boxes, VIP schemes, and affordability.
While Foster acknowledges the recent progress made by the Gambling Commission, he expresses disappointment in its lack of speed. This delay is likely due to resource constraints, hindering the Commission’s ability to be proactive. Foster believes that providing the Commission with adequate resources is essential for it to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
Foster highlights several areas that he hopes the upcoming review will address, including sport sponsorship, funding for the Gambling Commission, controls on affordability, online stake limits, and the classification of loot boxes. Ultimately, the main objective of the review is to establish a framework that effectively reduces gambling-related harm. Foster emphasizes the importance of addressing the large number of problem gamblers in the UK, along with the broader impact on affected individuals, including thousands of children.
To listen to the episode featuring Lord Don Foster, as well as previous episodes with industry experts, visit the InnovateChange ‘s Gambling Review Podcast.
