280 leaders demand Starmer scrap 'aim to permit' gambling venue rule
A group of 280 MPs, mayors, and anti-gambling campaigners has urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to scrap the 'aim to permit' rule for gambling venues. The controversial policy, introduced in 2005, currently makes it easier to open new betting shops and 24-hour slot parlours if demand exists. Critics argue the rule harms high streets and vulnerable residents. The letter, led by Labour MP Dawn Butler, calls for stronger protections for local communities. It demands that councils receive more power to control the number and location of gambling facilities. The government has already pledged to grant councils 'unprecedented new powers' to restrict betting shops on high streets.
Under the current system, councils must approve new gambling venues unless they can prove harm. This has led to a rise in betting shops, though their numbers have fallen by 29% since 2019. The Betting & Gaming Council reports that the industry still employs around 46,000 people and pays nearly ยฃ1bn in annual taxes. Meanwhile, gambling operator Evoke, which owns William Hill, may close up to 200 stores due to upcoming tax hikes. The proposed changes would give councils greater influence over licensing decisions, shifting away from the current preference for permitting new venues.
The push to abolish the 'aim to permit' rule reflects growing concerns about gamblingโs impact on communities. If removed, councils would gain more control over local betting shops, potentially reducing their presence on high streets. The move could also affect thousands of jobs and millions in tax revenue tied to the industry.
