RAiG calls for UK affiliate licensing regime

The Responsible Affiliates in Gambling (RAiG) trade body has voiced its support for the licensing of UK affiliates, claiming the move would raise standards across the sector.

The trade body has said that although voluntary measures put in place by affiliates including RAiG members can raise standards, the minimum requirements set out in a licensing or registration process would be more successful.

RAiG has said that the best body to oversee the regulation and licensing process is the Gambling Commission, citing the existing precedents of third-party supplier and alternative dispute resolution provider licensing.

“Such a system need not be expensive nor burdensome given that this approach is designed to supplement an already extensive range of regulations,” the RAiG has claimed.

RAiG CEO Clive Hawkswood said the affiliate trade body had assessed the pros and cons of licensing and registration of affiliates over many months before deciding to voice its support.

“This issue will achieve greater prominence as the government’s review of the Gambling Act 2005 picks up pace and it is vital that we play a constructive role as policies evolve rather than waiting on the side-lines for measures to be imposed.”

Hawkswood has called on the rest of the affiliate sector to follow the RAiG’s lead and retain an open mind about any potential licensing proposals in order to create a safer gambling environment.

“As with all forms of licensing and regulation, the devil is usually in the detail and the aim must be to work with all stakeholders to ensure that any provisions are proportionate and, most important of all, effective in improving safeguards for consumers,” Hawkswood added.

Earlier this year, EGR explored the case for and against licensing and regulating gambling affiliates.