UK authorities seek power to restrict betting and slot machine shops
A group of 36 councils and two mayors across the UK have written to the government, urgently demanding gambling legislation reform. In an exclusive report by ITV News, these leaders, who together represent more than 12 million people, stated that the existing regulations are outdated and cannot cope with the increasing number of betting shops and slot machines dominating high streets.
Current gambling laws in UK
The UK’s gaming legislation is primarily governed by the Gambling Act 2005. Although the act was originally introduced to regulate the industry, it has failed to address the rapid growth of casinos. According to these outdated laws, councils have limited authority to deny applications for additional betting shops, even in already over-saturated areas.
High streets throughout the UK have witnessed a significant rise in gambling shops, especially in deprived areas. During the pandemic, the number of gambling machines grew dramatically, increasing from approximately 171,000 to 202,000.
Local authorities contend that, despite broad opposition from the community, they are powerless to stop new gambling facilities from opening. Brent Council, at the forefront of reform, has highlighted the imbalance of gambling venues within their area. With the endorsement of Mayor Andy Burnham and other prominent leaders, they are advocating for changes in legislation that would grant greater powers to local authorities over the issuing of gambling licences.
The letter stated, “Communities like Brent are experiencing a groundswell of land-based gambling operators, spreading along our high streets and seemingly targeting areas of higher deprivation in a bid to maximise profits. The alarming concentration of these premises is often met with strong community opposition, and concerns from public health and community safety officials. But, despite this shared opposition among residents, police and politicians, councils have found themselves effectively powerless to intervene.”
Role of slot machines in gambling addiction
B3 betting machines, commonly found in bookmakers, have sparked concerns. These machines, which allow bet limits of €2.36 and dispense a maximum win of €589.20, have surged in number since the pandemic. They are deemed highly addictive and are considered a gateway to more severe gambling dependence.
Personal story of gambling harm
Sean Alexander, a former gambling addict, shared his harrowing experience with slot machines and online betting. What started as an innocent habit quickly spiralled into an addiction that cost him over €58,920 and destroyed his relationships. His story underscores the urgent need for reform.
Alexander shared, “I could be on the fruit machine for three, four hours. I was stuck on the machine, just chasing this high of winning the jackpot. I was suicidally depressed by the end of it. As a man of 30 years old, I had had a house and everything. On paper, I had it all, but there was a deep unhappiness that meant I was looking for quick fixes through gambling. It took everything; it took away my job, my girlfriend at the time, and friends.”
Why are reforms needed?
Gambling addiction is increasingly recognised as a public health issue. Mental illness, financial hardship, and social exclusion are all typical side effects, putting added pressure on NHS services. With overwhelming evidence of harm brought about by the uncontrolled proliferation of gambling venues, councils are crying out for action.
While the UK government has made some efforts to regulate gambling, many believe they have not gone far enough. Despite previous discussions on reform, no substantial changes have been implemented to give councils the power they need.
