In the latest results of the 2005 review of the Gambling Act, UK government ministers are said to have targeted sports betting operators, with reports that the agency will crack down on VIP schemes used by operators to attract gamblers. When asked to take a stand, the government said the act was seen as an “unethical” practice that was being used to encourage problem games.
A DCMS spokesperson said: “The consultation on the review of the Gambling Law closed in March, and we are carefully considering the responses to the provision of evidence and opinions, including those related to the implementation of advertising. ”
So far, we have only known indications that the ban might take effect. The government will release a white paper later this year covering all the final content that has been finalized, and the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has not commented on the government’s statement that it will ban VIP schemes.
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith reconsidered, saying a ban on VIP schemes was long overdue because the practice was used to induce people to gamble and was a “brutal abuse that forced people into debt”.
The believes that this measure is drastic if the bill passes, stating that “the BGC, in cooperation with the Gambling Commission, has taken drastic action against VIP accounts, including the introduction of a strict new code of conduct that has reduced the number of players joining by 70%.” The commission noted that the draconian measures taken by regulators last year have already reduced the number of VIP accounts by 70%.
The media report concluded that British ministers had reached a consensus on the decision.
If you’re interested in sports betting news, check out this feature by Denise Coates, CEO of Bet365.
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