House of Lords Select Committee publishes a call for evidence in respect of the gambling industry.

“The Select Committee on the Social and Economic Impact of the Gambling Industry has been appointed by the House of Lords.  A call for evidence has been published and submissions must be received by 6th September 2019.

The call for evidence, which can be viewed here , raises a number of questions  including the following :

1. The current state of the industry;
2. Developments in gambling habits;
3. The industry’s contribution towards research, education and treatment of problem gamblers;
4. Whether  the Gambling Act 2005 needs to be updated to reflect the significant changes in technology;
5. If gambling operators should have a legal duty of care to their customers;
6. Whether children should be allowed to play games machines including fruit machines, pushers and cranes;
7. The effectiveness of the voluntary levy;
8. Whether changes should be made to the statutory regime governing the National Lottery; and
9. How decisions should be made about regulating gambling advertising.

The Select Committee must publish is findings by 31st March 2020.

Lord Grade of Yarmouth, Chairman of the Committee, has stated:

“We know that the effects of gambling on individuals and families can be devastating. This Committee seeks further to understand the issues, in an area where concrete evidence is lacking, and to explore options for improvement.

The Committee is keen to receive evidence from a wide range of individuals, organisations and any sectors or groups in society effected. We encourage anyone with experience of the issues to share their views, and participate in this vital inquiry.”

Updates to follow via future e News.”

For more information on this topic or anything else licensing related, please contact solicitor Imogen Moss on i.moss@popall.co.uk or call 0115 953 8500