The Betting and Gaming Council has welcomed the Labour Party's general election manifesto. In it, Labour has pledged to continue working with the industry to raise standards on responsible betting and gaming.
The regulated betting and gaming sector is currently undergoing the biggest regulatory reforms in a generation, following the publication of the White Paper in 2023.
BGC members remain committed to implementing evidence-based, proportionate proposals outlined in the White Paper that will elevate standards while placing businesses on a solid regulatory foundation for growth.
These comprehensive reforms, aimed at further enhancing protections, are measures supported by both the BGC and Labour. They include a statutory levy to address problem gambling and gambling-related harm, the establishment of a Consumer Ombudsman to enhance consumer redress, seamless online financial risk checks, new stake limits for online slots, a sports sponsorship code, and modest yet crucial modernization proposals for the land-based casino sector.
Michael Dugher, CEO and Acting Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council, stated: “On behalf of our members, the 110,000 individuals employed in the regulated betting and gaming industry, and the 22.5 million people who engage in betting activities each month, we welcome the Labour Party's general election manifesto and its commitment to continue collaborating with the industry to further raise standards.
“BGC members are currently navigating the most significant regulatory changes in a generation since the release of the White Paper, which Labour supported. Much of this work will continue post-general election. This is complemented by the industry's substantial efforts to uphold world-class standards and protections for vulnerable individuals, which have transformed the sector in recent years and starkly contrast with the risks posed by the unsafe, unregulated online black market.
"The BGC and our members remain steadfast in our commitment to work with the incoming government to drive ongoing changes as part of the evidence-based, proportionate regulatory reforms outlined in the White Paper, ensuring these measures strike the right balance between safeguarding the vulnerable and enabling the vast majority of responsible bettors to continue enjoying their activities without undue interference.
“For a long time, the BGC has regarded the Labour Party not just as the official opposition in Parliament, but as a government-in-waiting. We have collaborated closely with shadow ministers in recent years and warmly welcome their manifesto commitment to collaborate with the regulated industry. Regardless of the election outcome, our mission to elevate standards persists, and we eagerly anticipate partnering with the next government in this critically important endeavor."
BGC members represent a British business success story, visible on bustling high streets through bookmakers, in the leisure and tourism sector via casinos and bingo halls, and in the tech industry where they are global leaders in online betting and gaming.
The regulated betting and gaming industry in the UK supports 110,000 jobs, contributes £4.2 billion in taxes, and adds £7.1 billion to the economy.
Moreover, our members provide crucial funding to some of the nation's most beloved sports.
The English Football League and its clubs receive £40 million, horse racing benefits from £350 million, and snooker, darts, and rugby league collectively receive over £12.5 million.
Each month in Britain, approximately 22.5 million adults participate in betting activities, with the most recent NHS Health Survey for England estimating that 0.4% of the adult population experience problem gambling.
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