I have received a few emails entitled “Mandatory Gambling
Levy.”
Gambling addiction is a serious problem that has
regrettably ruined far too many lives.
It is in everyone’s interest to have a healthy
gambling industry that contributes to the economy, but also one that does all
it can to protect players and their families, as well as the wider communities,
from harm.
Whilst a levy might appear to be a golden bullet
solution, before any legislation is introduced it would be appropriate to hear
the views of all interested parties. It is also important to recognise that as
with any addiction, no levy or law can resolve matters and I am concerned that
banning or taxing or seeking undue control can be counterproductive.
It is worth noting the government’s action with the
new £2 maximum stake on highly addictive betting machines – fixed odd betting terminals (FOBTs)
will be implemented in April 2020. FOBTs are a type of electronic slot machine
normally found in betting shops.
Each machine accepts bets for amounts up to a
pre-set maximum and pays out according to fixed odds on the simulated outcomes
of games. It is possible to lose large amounts of money in a very short period
of time while using FOBTs, and research have shown that the machines have a
causal role in problem gambling. I welcome this move.
However I also recognise that any new industry
regulation requires meaningful engagement between government officials and
stakeholders. Betting shops need to be fully prepared and be given sufficient
time to implement and complete the technological changes brought about by the
change.
The betting industry has acted already and
expressed concern on problem gambling with one prominent company showing
some support for legislation. I will raise these issues with ministers when I
see them.
