UK Gambling Reform Bill Reportedly On Its Way to the Trash Can – Casino.Org News

Posted on: September 19, 2022, 06:58h.

Last updated on: September 19, 2022, 11:22h.

Those calling for gambling reform in the UK arent going to be happy with the latest development. As new Prime Minister Liz Truss continues to put her house in order, the long-anticipated update to the countrys gambling laws might never arrive.

The UK government spent the past few years reviewing and updating its gambling regulations. It was to present its gambling white paper a year ago before delaying its publication several times.

Eventually, it appeared as though the government would unveil its plans sometime this month. But that was before Boris Johnson handed over the keys to the castle to Truss. The Guardian reports that the government is scrapping a number of proposed legislative changes, one of which is gambling reform.

The media outlet confirmed that Truss and her new cabinet are dumping energy reform and a new bill of rights. At the same time, an online harms bill, animal welfare, and gambling reform could be coming off the table as well.

There had already been a feeling that gambling reform wasnt going to be a priority as the new government settles into place. Comments made by Truss as she continues to shake up the upper and lower ranks of the UKs legislative structure seem to reinforce that belief.

Governments role should not be to tell us what our tastes should be. Too often were hearing about not drinking too much, eating too many doughnuts, Truss said.

The Conservative Party leader doesnt want the government to be in charge of running peoples lives. She states that it is not responsible for telling everyone how to think or act, and opts for a softer approach to leading the country.

Truss will also reportedly scrap an obesity bill for the same reason. She may erase a ban on how stores can display sugary products, as well as reinstate advertising for junk food during the day. Currently, there is a prohibition on the advertising of certain products before 9 pm.

Undoubtedly, the legislative updates are going to cause friction. Another change thats sure to spark debate is the recent discussion about the removal of a cap on the amount of bonuses bankers can receive.

This is a recommendation of Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng that has, reportedly, received support from Truss. The proposal, according to Kwarteng, is to ensure the UK can attract more talented financial banking experts.

These changes dont mean that reforms arent coming. For example, Truss scrapped the energy bill because of some of the language it included. At the same time, she announced that shes allocating 150 billion (US$170 billion) to address the UKs energy crisis.

What remains unclear is where the country is headed in terms of gambling reform. Even if it scraps the white paper, it isnt likely to drop the subject entirely. The Betting and Gaming Council didnt respond to a request for input.

Whats more likely, according to some, is a do-over from scratch that would include current analysis and research, along with more input from the gaming industry. Under voluntary responsible gambling programs, the self-governing ecosystem has reduced the percentage of problem gambling, according to the UK Gambling Commission.

The UKs gambling ecosystem, including casinos and sports betting venues, shut down on Monday in honor of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Some venues, such as Grosvenor, will open in the evening.

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UK Gambling Reform Bill Reportedly On Its Way to the Trash Can - Casino.Org News