British Gambling Operators Face Ultimatum

The new gambling regulations which went into effect last fall included a provision for Responsible Gaming. This was aimed at keeping crime out of gaming, ensuring that the games are fair and the protection of children and vulnerable people from being exploited by gambling. As part of this provision, gambling companies, including online casinos, were supposed to voluntarily contribute to a fund to protect problem gamblers.

A few of the gambling operators have made contributions, but many have not. Only 380 out of the U.K.’s 3800 gambling companies have made contribution to the Responsibility in Gambling Trust. This has resulted in shortfalls in funding for the Trust to function properly. They have an annual target of ₤4 million.

U.K. Culture Secretary Andy Burnham has said he will introduce legislation at the end of the year to make the contributions involuntary if the gambling companies do not increase their contributions. Since Mr. Burnham has officially cancelled the plans for the supercasino in Manchester, some of his political opponents are claiming the plan to introduce legislation requiring involuntary contributions is being used as a distraction from the supercasino cancellation. In his speech on February 26, Mr. Burnham said that they will continue with plans for sixteen smaller casinos.

Posted: March 1, 2008

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