UK MPs say online casino stakes must be cut

A Parliamentary Group from the UK published a report where it argues that online casino stakes should have the same limit as FOBTs.

UK.- The Gambling Related Harm All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has released a report in which it criticises the maximum stake that can be bet on online casinos. The MPs also said that the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is “not fit for purpose”, and the regulator rejected the accusations.

The APPG says that there is no reason why online slot games have stake levels higher than £2 and highlighted that such a thing is not allowed land-based, therefore it shouldn’t be permitted online either.

The MPs are now urging online gambling operators to sign the “Charter for Regulatory Reform” to show that they’re committed to supporting the policy proposals and modifications in the report. Some of the measures include the stake limit, a ban on credit cards for gambling, improved affordability checks, VIP accounts restriction and greater action to deal with inappropriate use of NDAs.

Carolyn Harris, who chairs the APPG, said: “This report highlights the urgent need for a root and branch review of the regulation of online gambling. Stakes and prize limits online would be a major step forward in reducing the harm caused by the sector.”

Harris also said that “it is not at all clear why the UKGC is not looking at this as a matter of urgency. It is an abdication of its responsibility as a regulator. There must be consistent and appropriate regulation of all forms of gambling,” she said. “I also urge the Government to urgently review the provision of research, education and treatment in the sector. Gamble Aware is not effectively carrying out this function and it should immediately be brought into a public health setting.”

UKGC’s response

A spokesperson for the UKGC said that the report doesn’t reflect the considerable action and progress on most of the areas of concern set out in the report. “We look forward to being given the chance to outline that work to the APPG,” said the spokesperson. “We constantly look for ways to make our regulatory approach more effective, ensuring that it keeps up with changes in technology and consumer behaviour, that we remain fit for purpose and continue to effectively respond to emerging issues and risks,” the spokesperson added.