The Bingo Association's Annual General Meeting: A Collaborative Crusade Against Illegitimate Gambling
UK Gaming Commission commends continuous partnership with the Bingo Association
At the Bingo Association's Annual General Meeting this month, UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) Executive Director, Tim Miller, addressed the ongoing collaborative relationship between the UKGC and the Association. Miller emphasized the significance of this alliance, especially in the face of challenges such as illegal bingo and the need to maintain a clean, crime-free gambling industry.
Miller commended the progress made by the UKGC and the Bingo Association over the past three years, having "made great strides in strengthening the evidence base around gambling." He emphasized the Commission's commitment to partnering with the Bingo Association to "deliver better outcomes" against illegal bingo operations.
The Commission has expressed concerns about bingo being offered without a license, which does not comply with relevant exemptions. To combat this, the UKGC is planning to engage with the Bingo Association regularly, seeking to address these issues collectively.
Beyond the ongoing challenge of illegal bingo, the UKGC and the Bingo Association are also focusing on the ongoing consultation on gaming machines. These consultations address technical standards for gaming machines as well as testing and have been extended to allow for more input from those impacted or interested.
The partnership between the UKGC and the Bingo Association is more than just a collaborative alliance. It's a united front against dubious practices, a commitment to ensure safer, fairer, and crime-free gambling. In March, the UKGC fined Corbett Bookmakers Limited $890,000 for social responsibility and anti-money laundering breaches, reflecting the Commission's relentless pursuit of compliance and ethical standards.
While the collaboration represents a significant step forward in driving meaningful change, there are challenges ahead. The broader gambling industry's reluctance to engage in collaborative efforts could pose a hurdle. However, with the UKGC and the Bingo Association leading by example, it's hoped that others will join the cause and contribute to a safer, more regulated gambling landscape.
On that note, it's worth mentioning that the partnership has resulted in advancements in the evidence base around gambling harm reduction and compliance frameworks. Furthermore, the Bingo Association's active participation in initiatives like Gam Protect and financial risk pilots has directly influenced regulatory discussions, particularly in balancing consumer protection with business sustainability.
So, as we move forward, let's continue to support this collaborative crusade against illegitimate gambling, working together to create a safer, more responsible gambling industry. Let's ensure that everyone who enjoys the thrill of a game can do so with confidence, knowing they're playing in an environment that prioritizes fairness, safety, and responsibility.
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- The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) also plans to collaborate with the Bingo Association in addressing illegal sports betting, aiming to ensure a clean, crime-free gambling industry that includes all forms of gambling.
- To expand the scope of their collaborative efforts, the UKGC and the Bingo Association are exploring the possibility of partnering on work related to sports exemptions, aiming to establish clear guidelines for legal sports betting operations.
- Recognizing the value of a united front against questionable practices in the gambling industry, the UKGC and the Bingo Association are contemplating collaborating with sports associations to create a comprehensive, industry-wide approach to combating illegal gambling activities.
