UK could change minimum age to buy scratchcards

The government could consider a proposal to increase the minimum age of play for National Lottery scratchcards and ACS said it would help with the process.

UK.- The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has responded to two Parliamentary inquiries in regards to the National Lottery. The ACS said that if the government decided to increase the minimum age to buy scratchcards, it will work with convenience retailers to make sure the changes are properly implemented.

The association said that if the government decided to implement the changes and increase the age to 18, it recommends that it should also increase the minimum for all National Lottery products, including the draw-based games, Forecourt Trader reported.

ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “Local shops are extremely effective in enforcing age restrictions and if the government chooses to increase the minimum age for purchasing lottery products we will promote compliance in the convenience sector including through our Assured Advice Scheme.”

The Committee for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is also working on a consultation regarding the minimum age of play and the ACS is expected to respond to it. The DCMS is also working on a consultation about the entire gambling industry.