(AsiaGameHub) – UK MPs have debated gambling advertising in Westminster, following a report from the APPG that urged stricter regulations on marketing, sports sponsorships, and content targeting younger viewers.
Good to Know
- The APPG report supported a ban on gambling advertisements before 9pm.
- MPs expressed worries about children being exposed to betting commercials on television and the internet.
- Government ministers stated that any new measures should not push consumers toward unlawful gambling sites.
MPs Clash Over Gambling Ad Limits
Labour MPs Alex Ballinger and Dr Beccy Cooper described gambling advertising as a public health issue, contending that repeated exposure can lead to more betting and hinder recovery for those suffering from gambling-related harm.
Ballinger presented statistics indicating that gambling companies allocate roughly £2 billion annually to marketing. He also mentioned Gambling Commission data revealing that 79% of children have encountered gambling advertisements.
Dr Cooper drew parallels between the promotion of gambling and the advertising of tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy food, stating:
“Gambling is an addictive product. That is an incontrovertible health fact.”
Not all MPs unconditionally endorsed stricter regulations. Conservative MP Charlie Dewhirst cautioned that severe restrictions could harm sports and broadcast revenues and allow unlicensed overseas operators to expand their market presence.
He suggested that illicit operators might surpass regulated UK companies in advertising expenditure by 2028.
The topic of sports sponsorship was also discussed, with MPs highlighting the Premier League’s ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsors starting in the 2026/27 season. This change could cost clubs as much as £80 million.
Ministers committed to continuing their review of the APPG’s proposals. They also highlighted the existence of a cross-government taskforce on illegal gambling, an additional £26 million in funding for Gambling Commission enforcement, and a planned consultation regarding sports sponsorship by unlicensed operators.
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