The UK could be on the verge of banning all gambling advertising, and introducing strict new stake limits for online slots. 

The Gambling-Related Harm All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has called for a ban on all gambling advertisement, including online, and a £2 stake limit for online slots. It has also recommended a ban on all VIP schemes, along with a review of deposit and prize limits. 

Regarding live in-play sports betting, the APPG has recommended the UK should follow Australia’s lead, and restrict it to venues and telephone betting only. 

Since March 2019 the APPG, which is made up of over 50 cross-party MPs and peers, has been investigating online gambling, holding 10 public evidence sessions and meetings with the Gambling Commission – which the APPG has slammed as “not fit for purpose.”

In its report, the APPG said the government should consider implementing short-term changes to the 2005 Gambling Act to ensure it is fit for the digital age. 

Commenting on the report, APPG chair, Carolyn Harris MP, said:

“This multi-million pound industry has destroyed people’s lives. They resist change at every turn and claim to be reforming themselves but put forward limited changes. We cannot ignore this any longer. Urgent change is needed to stop this industry riding roughshod over people’s lives.”

AYO.NEWS says:

Just like Shekarabi and co. in Sweden, it is now clear that politicians like Carolyn Harris are hell bent on an ideologically-driven crusade against gambling. As we’ve seen time and again in the UK, the small minded Nanny State cheerleaders like Harris are determined to ruin it for the majority, to protect a minority.

On the economic side of things, with the UK facing its worst recession in three hundred years, the government would do well to recognise the contribution the industry makes to the economy, and the absolute dependence of many sports clubs on gambling sponsorships. 

We’d say change is needed to stop politicians riding roughshod over people’s lives. 

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