The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has expressed its support and optimism following Labour’s resounding victory in the recent General Election. The BGC has pledged to work closely with the new government to enhance the betting and gaming industry in the UK.

Labour achieved a landslide victory on Thursday, July 4, setting the stage for significant policy changes. Before the election, Labour’s manifesto included commitments to collaborate with the industry to improve standards for responsible gambling, reinforcing the UK’s position as a leader in the betting and gaming sector.

Commitment to regulatory reforms:

The betting and gaming industry in the UK is undergoing major regulatory reforms, the most significant in decades, following the release of the White Paper in 2023. The BGC and its members are dedicated to implementing the evidence-based, balanced proposals outlined in the White Paper. These reforms aim to elevate industry standards while ensuring businesses are well-positioned for economic growth.

The comprehensive reforms, endorsed by both the BGC and Labour, include several critical measures:

– A statutory levy to address problem gambling and related harms.

– The establishment of an Ombudsman for improved consumer redress.

– Frictionless financial risk checks online.

– New stake limits for online slots.

– A Sports Sponsorship Code.

– Essential modernization proposals for the land-based casino sector.

According to Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), Michael Dugher, Chair of the Betting and Gaming Council, stated, “On behalf of our members, the 110,000 people whose jobs rely on the regulated betting and gaming industry, and the 22.5 million people who enjoy a bet each month, we welcome Labour’s victory and its commitment to continue working with the industry.

On hard-pressed high streets through bookmakers, in the leisure and tourism sector through casinos and bingo halls, and in tech, where our members are genuine world beaters, this is a sector ready to contribute to growth, jobs, and investment in the economy. We are investing in virtually every constituency in the land and look forward to working with all the newly elected Members of Parliament.”

Continued commitment to high standards:

Dugher highlighted the ongoing regulatory changes initiated by the White Paper, supported by Labour, and emphasized the importance of political stability for the industry’s future planning and investment. He noted, “Our members have the much-needed political certainty they need to plan and invest for a sustainable future. This work is backed up by the industry’s own significant efforts to drive world-class standards and protections for the vulnerable, which has transformed the sector in recent years and stands in marked contrast to the dangers posed by the unsafe, unregulated black market online.”

The BGC remains committed to working with Labour to implement the regulatory changes from the White Paper, ensuring a balance between protecting vulnerable individuals and allowing responsible gamblers to enjoy betting without unnecessary restrictions.

Collaboration with Labour:

The BGC has long treated Labour as a “Government in waiting,” collaborating closely with shadow ministers over the years on behalf of its members and customers. Dugher affirmed, “Our work to drive up standards and champion a world-leading British industry carries on, and we look forward to partnering with Labour – as they have pledged – in this vitally important work.”

The regulated betting and gaming industry in the UK is a significant economic contributor, supporting 110,000 jobs, generating £4.2 billion in tax revenue, and contributing £7.1 billion to the economy. Additionally, the industry provides essential funding for popular sports. The English Football League and its clubs receive £40 million, horseracing receives £350 million, and snooker, darts, and rugby league benefit from over £12.5 million in funding.

With around 22.5 million adults participating in betting each month, the most recent NHS Health Survey for England estimated that 0.4 percent of the adult population are problem gamblers. The BGC is committed to addressing this issue while fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for the majority who bet responsibly.