Public backs online gambling limits, Health Alliance poll says
The Gambling Health Alliance has revealed the results of a poll that found support for measures to control online gambling with the aim of preventing problem gambling.
UK.- The Gambling Health Alliance (GHA) has published the results of a survey showing public support for more restrictions on online gambling in the UK to prevent addiction.
According to the survey, just 8 per cent of gamblers and 5 per cent of non-gamblers would oppose a £2 limit for online slots, which would bring them in line with the limits on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals, which was cut from £100 to £2 in 2019.
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The GHA poll also found the majority of gamblers and non-gamblers would support a ban on all gambling advertising in or near sports grounds or venues and the introduction of affordability checks for anyone who gambles.
Some 57 per cent of gamblers and 63 per cent of non-gamblers would support a ban on all gambling for under-18s, who are currently able to access low-stake fruit machines, coin pushers and crane grabs.
GHA spokeswoman Louisa Mason said: “For too long the gambling ecosystem has developed into a powerful mechanism that has the potential to unleash harm and devastate lives. We now have the chance to do better and protect all those who gamble in the UK – and the public supports this.”
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport is currently carrying out a review of UK gambling legislation.
The popularity of online slots has increased during the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by lockdowns and the cancellation of sporting events.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, director of the campaign group Clean Up Gambling: “There is a growing consensus that our gambling laws are outdated and regulation is not fit for purpose. The Government cannot waste the opportunity this review presents to make it right.”
