DCMS considers allowing minors to sell National Lottery tickets
The DCMS has opened a consultation on proposals to allow 16 and 17 year olds to sell National Lottery tickets under supervision.
UK.- The UK government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is considering introducing a framework to allow 16 and 17 year olds to sell National Lottery tickets after the minimum age for playing National Lottery products was raised to 18 in April.
Retailers and Camelot, the National Lottery’s operator, had raised concerns about issues that the raising of the minimum age causes for retailers. They noted that 16 and 17 year olds make up a notable proportion of retail workers, particularly on Saturdays, which is a peak day for National Lottery ticket sales.
The DCMS has launched a consultation inviting opinions on a suggested alteration, which would mean that 16 and 17 year olds need the supervision of an adult to sell lottery tickets.
It said its proposal was similar to the arrangement for the sale of alcohol in England, Scotland and Wales. Staff aged under 18 must ask a “responsible person” to approve the sale.
John Whittingdale, minister for Media and Data, said: “The National Lottery operator has told us that they and many of their retailers support this small easement, which I am confident will serve our twin objectives of protecting the interests of young people while ensuring that the National Lottery can continue to raise funds for the good causes it supports.”
The consultation will remain open until midday on August 12.
In September, the Gambling Commission is due to announce its choice of operator for the next National Lottery licence, with contenders known to include Sazka Group’s Allwyn and Italy’s Sisal. It’s been reported that India’s Sugal & Damani has withdrawn its interest in the tender.
