The online gambling industry is bracing itself for a wide-ranging revision of the UK’s Gambling Act that will introduce curbs on the activities of the sector.
A review of the act is expected at any time that will update much of the 17-year-old provisions for the business.
Speculation suggests that maximum stakes of between £2 and £5 will be imposed on online casinos, there will be a ban on free bets and VIP packages for those who lose heavily and there will be affordability checks on players.
There is expected to be increased powers for the country’s Gambling Commission and an uplift in its funding in fees that are paid by the industry.
There will also be an ombudsman instituted to help secure the rights of players if gambling companies fail to respect social responsibility.
On the plus side for the industry, there is expected to be an increase in the maximum number of slots present in land-based casinos, giving the right to install 80 machines as a maximum, four times what is currently permitted.
At the same time, operators will be able to offer credit facilities to well-endowed overseas visitors.
The ban on gambling companies sponsoring Premier League football shirts has apparently been dropped by those constructing the new rules, following a vigorous campaign by the industry and by the football clubs.
It is now hoped that a voluntary agreement will be reached with the football clubs on the issue. At the same time, the plans for an enforced levy on the industry to fund research and treatment of addiction have also been dropped.
