Debate on UK gambling policy hots up
Differing views have emerged among the Labour government.
UK.- Rival opinions are emerging in the ruling Labour Party on the direction of gambling policy in Britain.
Richard Baker, the MP for Glenrothes and Mid Fife in Scotland, has defended the industry in an op-ed for Politics Home, stressing the importance of the regulated betting industry as a contributor to local economies, public services and grassroots sport.
“Betting and sport have always gone hand in hand – from horse racing to football, snooker to darts,” he wrote. “What’s changed in recent years is the scale of investment flowing from regulated betting companies into sport, supporting everything from elite competitions to grassroots participation. This investment has helped the UK become a world leader in both sport and regulated betting – a success story that benefits fans, players, and the wider economy.”
He highlighted the impact on his own constituency, in both positive and negative terms. “Modern betting shops provide jobs and footfall on high streets that have struggled in recent years, including in the town centre in my own constituency,” he wrote. “I have come across instances where people’s lives have been deeply affected by gambling addiction and in particular through the actions of those companies who have not signed up to the industry’s own Safer Gambling commitments.
“We must do more on this issue. But for most people, betting is a normal part of their leisure time, and the industry contributes billions in tax and thousands of jobs, while supporting vital causes including sport. No-one disputes the need to keep tax policy under review. But any reform must be carefully considered along with any potential unintended consequences – not just for the sector itself, but for the sports and communities that benefit from it.”
Baker also touched on the topic of gambling tax, which is currently subject to debate due to proposal to unify the various tax rates for different online gambling verticals.
“As is the case when looking at all tax changes for industries in raising short-term revenue, it is vital to consider the impact on jobs, future tax income, and for the gambling industry the importance of funding provided for sport as well as the potential to expose consumers to greater harm. As a Labour MP, I want a tax regime that is fair, progressive and economically sound – one that protects the public, supports jobs, and rewards responsibility. More than ever, we need businesses that are investing and contributing, just as William Hill is doing with the SPFL and Epic.
“If we want thriving high streets, strong communities, world-class sport, and a safe environment for those who choose to bet, then we must ensure that our tax regime supports a sustainable, regulated betting market.”
Meanwhile, Brent East MP Dawn Butler has called for the government to give local councils more power to prevent betting shops from opening in their areas. She’s calling for an end to the Aim to Permit, which limits the power of local councils’ ability to refuse applications for new gambling venues.
