Growing gambling sector compatible with increased safety says UK government

March 3, 2025

Growing gambling sector compatible with increased safety says UK government

The UK government is committed to balancing the growth of the gambling sector with improved player protection, according to Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross. Speaking at the Betting and Gaming Council’s (BGC) annual general meeting on 27 February, Twycross emphasised the sector’s economic contribution and provided updates on key policy changes.

“I’ve seen the value this sector brings, not just in tax receipts and jobs created, but as a leisure activity,” she said.

Speaking to leading figures from politics, industry, and the AGM regulator, Shadow Secretary of State Stuart Andrew, said: “Betting and gaming are integral parts of the UK’s world leading entertainment industry, and the contribution that you make as members of the Betting and Gaming Council is profound.

“Alongside generating that substantial economic value, you also contribute to the well-being of our communities, ensuring that the betting and gaming industry operates responsibly and ethically, and the importance of the work of the Council as the standards body for the regulated betting and gaming industry cannot be overstated.”

Statutory levy and online stake limits confirmed

Twycross described the introduction of the statutory levy as a “huge step forward” in ensuring sustainable funding for gambling harm prevention and treatment. The up to 1.1 percent levy on gross gambling yield aims to generate £100 million to“guarantee increased, ringfenced and consistent funding to prevent and tackle gambling harm.” It officially became law on 25 February and will come into effect on 6 April, with the first payments due by 1 October 2025.

She reassured stakeholders that support for treatment providers will continue throughout this transition and welcomed the BGC’s commitment to maintaining this funding.

Additionally, new online stake limits have now been legislated. Twycross confirmed that the £5 maximum stake will be enforced from 9 April, while a reduced £2 limit for younger adults will take effect from 21 May.

“I know implementing these stake limits is a technical challenge, and I am grateful for the work you have done in preparing for this moment,” she said.

Plans for modernising casinos

The government is also moving forward with plans to modernise UK casinos. The proposed changes include a sliding scale of machine entitlements and the inclusion of sports betting in all casinos. These reforms aim to encourage investment in the sector and boost economic activity among operators and machine manufacturers.

“The changes will unlock investment in the sector and should provide an economic boost for operators and machine manufacturers,” Twycross stated.

Tackling illegal gambling and advertising concerns

Twycross addressed two other key issues: illegal gambling and advertising. The recently passed Crime and Policing Bill strengthens the ability of authorities to shut down illegal gambling websites, with the Gambling Commission increasing its efforts to disrupt black-market operators.

Regarding advertising, Twycross acknowledged its importance to licensed operators but recognised public concerns about excessive gambling ads, particularly during sports broadcasts.

“There are people who feel inundated with gambling ads when watching sport,” she said, noting that these ads can have a more significant impact on vulnerable individuals, including children. She called for a “robust assessment” of the effects of advertising and sports sponsorships.

Industry welcomes regulatory stability

The speech conveyed a positive outlook for the UK gambling sector, highlighting future growth alongside strengthened player protection. This perspective stood in contrast to recent political debates, which have often focused on the risks of gambling.

Industry leaders expressed optimism about the government’s direction. BGC CEO Grainne Hurst reflected this sentiment in her opening address, stating,“We are on the cusp of a period of regulatory stability” following a “long and arduous process” to implement white paper changes.

Hurst acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in areas like affordability checks, anti-money laundering measures, and casino modernisation. However, she projected that by the end of 2025, most key reforms will be in place.

Uncertain future for greyhound racing

While the broader UK gambling sector sees promising changes, the future of greyhound racing remains uncertain. The issue was raised several times during the event, particularly in light of a proposed ban on the sport in Wales.

During the event, many industry figures emphasised the crucial role of bookmakers in advocating for greyhound racing. They warned that a lack of collective action could lead to bans on the sport across the UK.

Greg Knight, managing director of Jenningsbet, voiced concerns on a later panel,“It will be jump racing after that. These people [gambling prohibitionists] won’t stop there. They want to spoil people’s fun; that is what they’re out to do.”

With regulatory changes on the horizon and ongoing debates about the gambling sector’s future, the government’s balancing act between economic growth and responsible gambling remains a focal point for both policymakers and operators.