The UK Gambling Commission made a significant announcement on September 14, 2023, revealing its plans to establish an Industry Forum. This forum will comprise key stakeholders from the British gambling industry, providing the Commission with valuable insights into the operational challenges gambling service providers face.
UK Gambling Commission’s New Establishment
The rationale behind the forum’s creation is to gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s dynamics. Marcus Boyle, Commission Chair, stated, “We’ve always considered industry input when making decisions, but this new forum will offer an additional channel for collaboration with the industry we oversee.”
The Commission intends for the Industry Forum to actively participate in various stakeholder initiatives and advisory groups, including the Commission’s Lived Experience Advisory Panel, the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling, and the Digital Advisory Panel. Moreover, the forum aims to strengthen the Commission’s ties with consumer research and international gambling regulators and research organizations.
These connections are expected to provide the regulator with enhanced insights into industry trends and the effectiveness of existing regulations. The Industry Forum will serve as a platform for stakeholders to share industry perspectives on topics such as account management and the Commission’s data program. It will also offer consultations and clarity on industry-specific issues.
The Industry Forum will comprise individuals with an in-depth understanding of the British gambling industry, well-versed in its unique challenges and opportunities. With their industry expertise, forum members will be well-positioned to propose regulatory enhancements and adjustments, representing a diverse range of gambling sectors.
This newly formed group, comprising representatives from various gambling sectors, will be led by a designated Chair. The Gambling Commission plans to appoint the Chair for a three-year term, with the recruitment process commencing in September 2023. During the same month, stakeholders will be invited to express their interest in becoming a part of this new entity.
The establishment of the Gambling Commission’s Industry Forum is a significant step forward. It is designed to provide the regulator with a comprehensive understanding of the gambling industry’s operations and trends, enabling the Commission to tailor its future activities more effectively.
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About
The UK Gambling Commission is your trusted resource for information on gambling in Great Britain and assistance when needed. As an executive, non-departmental public body of the UK government, the Commission’s role encompasses licensing, regulation, guidance, and advice to individuals and businesses involved in gambling activities, including the National Lottery in the UK. Their jurisdiction covers various sectors such as arcades, betting, bingo, casinos, slot machines, lotteries, and remote gambling (excluding spread betting). The Commission operates under the “Gambling Act 2005,” exempting free prize competitions and draws from its oversight.
The Commission’s primary objectives are to combat gambling-related crime and safeguard vulnerable individuals. They issue licenses to operators, provide advisory services to the government on gambling matters, and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address suspected illegal gambling activities. Established in 2007, the Commission took over the responsibilities of the Gaming Board for Great Britain and assumed regulatory authority over the National Lottery in 2013. Trust the UK Gambling Commission for reliable information and support in promoting responsible gambling practices.
The primary objectives of the Commission are to uphold the integrity of gambling, ensure equitable and transparent gambling practices, and provide protection to children and vulnerable individuals. However, some critics raise concerns about certain aspects of the Commission’s operations, such as its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process and the default non-disclosure of complaints, which are often considered standard procedures. These practices sometimes appear to conflict with the Commission’s stated mission.
To address these concerns, the Commission unveiled its new business plan for 2018/19. This plan outlined ambitious goals, including enhancing industry standards, bolstering consumer protections, and intensifying efforts to shield the public from the harms associated with gambling.
Additionally, in a proactive move, from December 2020 to February 2021, the Commission sought public input on how to improve the quality and timeliness of its problem gambling statistics. This initiative demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to continually refining its approach and ensuring a safer and fairer gambling environment for all.