After a lengthy waiting period, the Government white paper, titled ‘High Stakes: Gambling Reform in the Digital Age,’ has been published, leaving many within the industry concerned about what the future may hold.

The paper included over 15,000 submissions of evidence and is likely to result in significant changes to the way the UK gambling industry operates. Much of the discussion over what the paper may end up recommending relates to the issue of problem gamblers. 

Reaction from those within the industry has been muted, Jette Nygard-Anderson, CEO of Entrain, the group that owns Coral, Ladbrokes, and PartyPoker, among others, struck a cordial tone with her comments;

“The UK Gambling Act Review is an important step towards having a robust regulatory framework that is fit for the digital age and creates a level playing field for all operators. We welcome the clarity that it will bring to the industry and customers.”

“In leading the industry on player protection, we have already implemented a comprehensive range of actions to protect our customers, such as our industry-leading Advanced Responsibility and Care safer gaming programme, personalised online slots staking limits, and the implementation of an affordability model across the UK. We are also extremely proud to have led the industry in 2019 by voluntarily agreeing to increase our levy donations to one per cent of our UK gross gaming revenues.”

“As a global and diversified business that operates in over 40 territories around the world, all of which are regulated or regulating, we are firmly in favour of regulation that preserves the market for the vast majority of customers who enjoy recreational betting and gaming, whilst also ensuring appropriate protection to all players.”

The white paper will look to reduce the amount that people can gamble on certain casino games as well as enhance financial checks for those between the ages of 18-24. There are also ongoing moves to reduce the amount of visible sponsorship of gambling companies and brands.

To this end, the English Premier League has already voluntarily moved to remove these brands from the front of their kits for the coming season and onwards.