Discussion in the House of Lords Regarding the Effect of Advertising in Gambling Sector
House of Lords to Discuss Impact of Gambling Marketing on Problem Gambling and Child Exposure
The House of Lords will convene for a significant debate on April 25, 2024, focusing on the role of gambling marketing in exacerbating problem gambling and the risks of children being exposed to gambling advertising. This discussion is part of ongoing efforts to reform gambling regulation in the UK.
The debate, proposed by MP Daniel Foster, Lord Foster of Bath, comes amidst an ongoing overhaul of the gambling sector. The intended discussion centres around the impact of gambling marketing on problem gambling, particularly the risk of exposure to gambling advertising on children.
Recent proposals aim to increase duties on gambling activities to raise government revenue and fund social support, emphasizing that children should not be exposed to gambling harms while the industry pays its fair share. The Responsible Gambling Council highlights the need for stringent standards for gambling advertising and marketing to reduce these risks, reflecting a broad consensus in regulatory and public health circles.
A study conducted by CultureStudio Research, Family Kids & Youth, and Sherbert Research uncovered a concerning trend of children admitting that gambling activities are part of their daily activities. The study also revealed that children have been exposed to gambling during live sporting events. These findings underscore the need for stricter regulations on gambling advertising, both online and during live sporting events.
GamCare, a leading charity for problem gambling, recorded 52,370 online chats and calls in 2023, a 24% increase compared to the figures from 2022. The increase in calls and chats indicates a growing concern about problem gambling in the UK.
The government is considering tough restrictions for gambling ads in response to concerns about excessive gambling and gambling harm. The debate in the House of Lords will discuss the impact of gambling marketing and its potential contribution to these issues.
The discussion in the House of Lords will be a crucial step in addressing the impact of gambling marketing on vulnerable groups, particularly children, and the broader social harms caused by problem gambling. The debate will provide a platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and propose solutions for a safer gambling environment in the UK.
[1] Gambling Act White Paper released in April 2023
[2] Responsible Gambling Council emphasizes the need for stringent standards for gambling advertising and marketing
[1] The Gambling Act White Paper, released in April 2023, has set the stage for comprehensive policy-and-legislation reforms to regulate the gambling industry, focusing on minimizing the risks associated with gambling marketing and addressing problem gambling.
[2] As the gambling industry navigates these policy-and-legislation changes, it's crucial for stringent standards in gambling advertising and marketing to be implemented, as emphasized by the Responsible Gambling Council, to protect children and vulnerable individuals from gambling harms. Additionally, such regulations may help ensure that the industry contributes its fair share in funding social support programs, as proposed by recent policy discussions.
