Summary
- Paul Scully said the DCMS is taking the lead on all aspects of UK gambling regulation
- Scully made it clear discussions on gambling issues will continue after the release of the White Paper
- There is still no clear indication when the white paper will be released
Paul Scully, minster for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) confirmed the Gambling Review White Paper will be published in the coming weeks, but he also stressed that the conversation about gambling and its social impact will not end there.
The Minister delivered a speech at GambleAware’s tenth annual conference held on Dec 7 during which he talked about the government and the industry’s collective efforts to combat gambling harm, putting the spotlight on the long-delayed White Paper and the ongoing problem gambling issue in the country.
Problem Gambling Conversations Will Continue Even After Whitepaper Release
The Gambling Act Review was launched in 2020 with the ultimate goal of making the UK’s gambling laws fit for the digital age. It was postponed multiple times this year mainly due to political turmoil triggered by the resignation of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in July. The industry and the government have also been at odds over certain proposed reforms, contributing to the delay.
Despite the challenges, Scully, the fifth government minister to supervise the Gambling Act Review after taking over the role from Damian Collins in October, stated that he has so far enjoyed his current position and is looking forward to the crucial tasks that he and the entire team at the DCMS will undertake.
Scully reassured everyone that the DCMS is taking the lead on every aspect of gambling policy and regulation and is keeping an open mind on the changes that must be implemented to tackle gambling harm.
In terms of how real money gambling operates in the UK, Scully said the country is “in a good position”, considering that most gambling activities are done in the regulated market, wherein operators are required to comply with the conditions attached to their license.
Scully also acknowledged that the gambling landscape has evolved significantly since 2005, as people can now access gambling platforms in just a few clicks anytime, anywhere. Scully highlighted that the risks of gambling harm have increased in this digital age, which means customer safeguards must be strengthened.
Scully Praises UKGC, GambleAware
Scully did not forget to thank the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), GambleAware, and GamCare for all the work that they do to protect people from gambling harm.
He promised to continue discussions on gambling-related issues even after the publication of the White Paper.
