Generous contributions from UK gambling firms surpass the 200 million euro mark: is a mandatory levy still essential?
The UK's Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has shared stats on investments. Over a span of 4 years from 2020 to 2024, around £172.5 million (roughly €205 million) was instrumental in combating problematic gambling and related consequences. Leading BGC members contributed a substantial £122.5 million towards this cause. However, these might be the final voluntary contributions.
Voluntary funds cover 85% of treatments
In a public statement [English link], the BGC emphasized that the contributions from their major members have surpassed their initial commitments in the past 4 years.
Back in 2017, BGC members such as Entain, Flutter, bet365, and Evoke agreed to boost their investments in gambling problem research, prevention, and treatment. They honored this promise, with the funds managed by charity organization GambleAware.
Around 85% of UK individuals undergoing treatment for gambling-related troubles rely on these funds, as they draw their resources from this budget.
Would a mandatory fee be advantageous?
The BGC has clarified that these funds are exclusive, voluntary contributions. The BGC has proposed a shift from the current voluntary scheme to a mandatory fee, contingent upon gambling firms having no control over the funds' allocation.
However, there are reservations that introducing a new system might lessen financing for non-profit organizations significantly contributing at present.
A heavy mandatory fee might hinder gambling companies' capacity to donate extra funds to non-profit organizations. Moreover, it could potentially impede the success of legitimate operators, inadvertently bolstering the illicit market.
New administration must make a call
Plans for a mandatory fee on gambling companies in the UK originated from the Conservative Party, which was recently replaced by the Labour Party after 14 years.
Activists have contacted the new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, to advocate for the implementation of the mandatory fee. Activists warn that a delay might result in "lost lives".
It's still uncertain whether the Labour Party will persist with the Conservative Party's gambling regulation plans. The conclusion of the open points outlined in the so-called Gambling White Paper has yet to be finalized.
The BGC's public statement highlighted that their major members have exceeded their initial investment commitments towards gambling problem research, prevention, and treatment from 2017 to present, with funds mainly managed by GambleAware. (From the text)
The proposal to shift from the voluntary fee system to a mandatory one, contingent upon gambling firms having no control over the funds' allocation, has been put forward by the BGC. (Using 'BGC' from your list of words)
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