UKGC reiterates support for statutory gambling levy
New three-year problem gambling strategy brings into “sharp relief” the need for greater funding
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has reaffirmed its support for the introduction of a mandatory levy on operators to fund problem gambling support and treatment initiatives throughout the UK.
Speaking at the launch of the new UKGC National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms, UKGC chair William Moyes highlighted the inadequacy of the current voluntary system of funding, which is derived in part from regulatory settlements following licence breaches.
Moyes said a mandatory levy would not only help to secure appropriate levels of funding, but would “provide a certainty to the funding streams that would allow for a sustainable and more long-term approach to be taken”.
“The publication of this new strategy has not diminished that support. Indeed, it has brought into sharper relief the need for such an approach to funding,” Moyes added.
Citing prior Responsible Gambling Strategy Board research, Moyes asserted that a funding target of £70m annually was enough to provide effective independent research, prevention and education into problem gambling.
Moyes’ comments are in contrast to those of the UK Sports Minister Mims Davies, who reiterated her support for the continuation of the voluntary system, saying that it was “capable of delivering sustainable funding to meet the increased targets that will be set as evidence of needs emerges”.
However, Davies sounded a sharp warning for the industry, adding that “if it turns out that the voluntary system is not capable of meeting current and future needs, we will look at alternatives. Everything is on the table”.
Davies confirmed that she and Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright held a constructive meeting with CEO’s of several of the UK’s biggest gambling operators, setting out the government’s “clear expectations” of their obligations in respect of problem gambling support.
She also voiced the government’s desire for “further and faster” progress on protecting vulnerable individuals.
The new National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms aims to deliver on two strategic priority areas – prevention and education and treatment and support.