UK to Debate Gambling Bonus Regulations amidst Rising Public Opposition
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is set to engage gambling industry stakeholders on the topic of bonuses and other perks. This is part of a thorough review after the release of the government's white paper, but the pushback from the public to some of the recommendations is intensifying.
Mandy Gill, the UKGC's Compliance Director, addressed the bonus discussion at the British Amusement Catering Trade Association (BACTA) this week. The main focus of these consultations is the use of free bets and other incentives and their role in delivering a "socially responsible" gaming experience.
The white paper proposed numerous changes that could drastically reshape the UK's gambling sector. While some, like affordability checks, aren't popular, it's up to customers and the gaming industry to make sure the revisions get acceptance.
Bonuses and Free Bets on the Chopping Block
The gambling regulator is now gathering feedback from gaming companies on how they currently integrate incentives with social responsibility. It will also provide a platform for them to share how these perks might be modified in line with the proposed government reforms.
The government and UKGC have already introduced curbs on how operators can use incentives to draw in players. The white paper could propose stricter limits, which has some worried that the black market could thrive.
During her BACTA address, Gill revealed that the regulator and government officials would discuss gambling management tools during the latest consultation. This would include whether stricter online deposit limits are necessary.
The UKGC is also seeking comments on "regulatory returns," a self-provided audit from gaming operators that offers information on their daily activities. The regulator uses this information to ensure the company complies with its license terms.
To amp up the process, the UKGC is considering more frequent collection of regulatory returns. Almost all operators provide quarterly and annual returns at present.
More items "out of date or not useful" might also face removal.
Increased Gamer Opposition to Changes
The bonus and incentives consultation follows the discussions on affordability checks and other topics, which generated 3,000 submissions from the gaming sector. While some, like affordability checks requiring gamblers to frequently prove financial stability, may lead to restrictions or even outright bans for players.
However, the UKGC claims the impact of such checks would be minor. To date, they haven't provided solid data to back this up.
There are currently two petitions ongoing, both expressing opposing views to the government's proposals.
The first, "Stop the Implementation of Betting Affordability/Financial Risk Checks," highlights that the checks activate when players experience losses of as little as £1.37 (USD $1.69) daily.
Launched on November 1, the petition has already amassed over 41,200 signatures and will remain open until May 1, 2024.
The second petition, "Don't Allow Affordability Checks for Sports Betting," simply states that "punters shouldn't have to endure intrusive checks on their finances." This petition is open until November 9 and has gathered almost 4,100 signatures.
In compliance with UK law, the government must respond to the first petition if it achieves over 10,000 signatures. If the second petition secures 6,000 additional signatures in the next week, the same requirement applies.
Furthermore, if a petition reaches 100,000 signatures, the government must hold a parliamentary debate.
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Source: www.casino.org
