UK Gambling Commission to reduce operator data collection

The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) intends to reduce the amount of data it collects from licensed operators as it seeks to streamline the regulatory process and improve efficiency.

The regulator this week launched a consultation on proposed changes to the licensing codes of practice (LCCP) after a National Audit Office report highlighted delays in the implementation of procedural changes, having also found the UKGC was struggling to keep pace with the industry.

The UKGC is seeking to reduce the amount of data it asks operators for in regulatory returns, proposing reductions in the collection of non-GB data, B2C revenue share data and gambling software data.

Data collected on workforce figures is also set to be reduced, while the regulator will now ask two questions to gauge operator commitments to research, education and treatment (RET) – instead of seven.

Reporting windows for quarterly and annual returns would also be standardised at 28 days, changing the annual return window from the current 42 days.

The changes are designed to simplify the reporting processes for operators with multiple licences and to reduce the time it takes the UKGC to publish aggregated industry data.

The consultation – which can be read here – further outlines “key events” which operators must report to the UKGC.

Licensees would also no longer have to report any court judgments, independent auditing arrangements or any change in provisions to protect customer funds.

The consultation closes on 20 May.