Parents of deceased gambling addict ask that inquest considers government liability

“The parents of Jack Ritchie, who took his own life aged 24, are seeking for the inquest into his death to consider Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights (the right to life).

The family are arguing that a failure by the government to adequately regulate the gambling industry means that people are not protected from the risk of addiction and suicide.

The family are not seeking financial compensation. A ruling against the government could lead to claims from families of other people who have committed suicide after suffering severe gambling addiction and to increased regulation of the industry.

The Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport and the Gambling Commission are opposing the family’s attempt to engage Article 2 in the inquest.”

For more information on this topic or anything else licensing related, please contact licensing solicitor David Inzani on d.inzani@popall.co.uk or call 0115 953 8500.