Camelot hits back at GambleAware in responsible gambling dispute
Lottery operator describes the charity’s written submission to the Public Accounts Committee as “completely inaccurate”
Camelot has rejected claims by GambleAware that the operator is reluctant to promote safer gambling initiatives because it wants to distance itself from the betting industry.
In a letter written to the Public Accounts Committee on 16 January, GambleAware condemned Camelot in 14 bullet points as part of an inquiry into the decline in National Lottery income for good causes.
The charity claims operator the lottery is an anomaly in gambling, because its products are available to 16 and 17-year-olds, which could lead to addiction at a young age through the use of scratchcards.
GambleAware added that Camelot was reluctant to promote safer gambling in ad campaigns or on its products because it wanted to distance itself from the industry.
Finally, the charity said financial contributions made by Camelot for education, research and treatment for gambling addiction were insufficient.
The submission read: “Camelot needs to promote responsible gambling in line with the rest of the industry.
“Their donation has not met what we regard as a reasonable minimum contribution.”
But Camelot told EGR it was shocked by the letter, as CEO Nigel Railton had been involved in promising discussions with the organisation before Christmas.
“Nigel met with GambleAware before Christmas and had a very constructive conversation – where he voluntarily offered to increase our annual financial contribution from £190,000 to £300,000,” said Camelot senior media relations manager, Sarah Icken.
“He offered to provide GambleAware with data that we hold, and agreed to meet again in the New Year to continue the discussions.
“So, we were disappointed and surprised by GambleAware’s submission.
“It’s also worth noting that details of GamCare – the UK’s national centre for information, advice and practical help regarding the social impact of gambling – are found on all National Lottery products.
“So, it is therefore completely inaccurate for GambleAware to say that we are reluctant to promote safer gambling and highlight sources of help for gambling addiction at the point of sale, in advertising campaigns or on our products.”
GambleAware has become increasingly outspoken in accusing the industry of underfunding it, while there is also growing support for a statutory levy to fund problem gambling treatment.