UK Gambling has been assured that the adoption of a new Statutory Levy and the application of £2/£5 stake limits will prove effective in reducing problem gambling harms and ensuring Britain has the safest gambling environments.
The measures were announced last week by DCMS, applying the White Paper recommendation of online slot stake limits of £5 for those aged over 25 and £2 for young adults aged 18 to 24. DCMS further determined the design and structure of the Statutory Levy on funding research, education, and treatment (RET Levy) – to be led by the NHS as chief commissioner.
Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross spoke on the implications of the measures at GambleAware’s Annual Conference for problem gambling stakeholders.
Labour is the catalyst of Real Change for UK Gambling
In just over 100 days in office, Twycross underscored the significance of the Labour government delivering on its gambling pledges: “This Government made a commitment in its manifesto to reduce gambling-related harms by reforming regulations and strengthening protections.
“We also want to work with the industry to ensure responsible gambling, ensuring that the majority who gamble without harm can continue to do so… I want to talk to you today about how we will make that happen.”
Audiences were informed that the Labour government’s view of gambling is not prohibitionist, recognising the “social and economic value the sector can bring” but emphasising that customers must be protected from the harmful consequences of gambling.
“In Opposition Labour supported the 2023 gambling white paper. In Government, we will continue to do so. I want to work with you all, with the Gambling Commission and with the gambling industry, to continue to deliver the key reforms it sets out. I know many of you are eager to hear our plans.”
NHS is the best steward of RET Levy
The determination of the statutory RET Levy was described as a “watershed moment” as all businesses involved in UK gambling will contribute to harm prevention. Twycross stated: “I am unapologetic in wanting a system for the future that is clearer, fairer and sustainable. It is only right that all operators pay their fair share and that contributions reflect levels of harm and the financial realities of the land-based sector.”
By positioning the NHS as the Chief Commissioner, the government aims to improve the accessibility, quality, and impact of services tackling gambling-related harms by addressing the individual needs of local communities.
Bolstered by over £100 million in direct funding for RET support services and programmes, the NHS will expand its treatment services, providing comprehensive support under a nationwide strategy on problem gambling.
Significantly, under NHS stewardship, the levy ensures a transparent and equitable model that addresses current gaps in service provision while laying the foundation for long-term improvements.
DCMS maintains that the key objective of the RET Levy is to provide a platform for expanding evidence-based research to improve gambling policies and protections. Funds will be allocated under the guidance of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), driving high-quality research to inform future policy and prevention strategies.
Despite changes, DCMS acknowledges the existing support and contribution of third-sector organisations to RET. The government is committed to ensuring a smooth transition to the National Gambling Support Network.
“Together with many of you in this room, GambleAware has been crucial in getting the issue of gambling harm up the agenda. We are committed to a smooth and stable transition to the levy, which represents a step change in the government’s efforts in this area. We will work with all key stakeholders to ensure its success.
“Close collaboration with the third sector will be crucial to ensure people in need continue to get the support they need as we move towards the levy system.”
Focus on Game Design for safer environments
On stake limits, Twycross stated that the government had achieved the long-term alignment of online slots with land-based gaming machines, ensuring Britain has standardised player protections across all platforms.
Game design is viewed as a critical component of protection. The government supports the Gambling Commission programme to improve age assurance, enhance customer choice in direct marketing, and implement financial risk checks.
Stake limits form part of a package of new measures that “will work together with other changes that have been made to game design, such as slowing down the speed of play and banning autoplay features. These measures reduce play intensity and are intended to provide customers with a better understanding of their gambling.”
No hiding from accountability in Advertising and Sponsorships
In concluding her speech, Twycross highlighted key areas where Labour expects higher accountability from UK gambling operators regarding advertising and sponsorships.
“We know that people can feel they are being inundated with gambling messaging – and this can be especially true whilst watching sport. We know that advertising can have a disproportionate impact on those who are already suffering from gambling-related harm.”
Twycross stated that advertising conduct and standards cannot be viewed on an operator-by-operator basis, but rather “looked at in aggregate.” She added: “I do not stand here today to tell you what that volume must be, but I do expect industry to take the initiative on this by working across industry, with sporting bodies, with academics and harm prevention experts.”
DCMS has growing concerns about “white label” operators “using football in this country to advertise to consumers outside of Great Britain.” Twycross confirmed: “The Gambling Commission and industry will gather further evidence of their prevalence and impact. If further action is needed, we will take it.”
The minister highlighted the unsustainability of industry-led safer gambling messaging, announcing plans to develop a new approach with the Department of Health and the Gambling Commission.
“Today I’ve set out my plan, and some challenges for this industry. This Government will do its part, and I am asking you to do yours. A better, safer gambling industry is in all of our interests, and I hope you are all as keen as I am to take these challenges on. I will keep listening and working with you all to realise this, and I look forward to the weeks and months ahead.”
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