Twycross confirmed the launch dates of the long-awaited statutory levy and online slots stake limits, marking another significant milestone for UK gambling regulation
Baroness Twycross, the UK Minister for Gambling, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a fair gambling regulatory strategy that balances industry development with consumer protection. Speaking at a recent industry forum, she detailed the ongoing reforms aiming to foster a safer and more sustainable gambling environment while ensuring economic stability for stakeholders.
The Statutory Levy Will Provide Critical Financing
Baroness Twycross acknowledged the economic benefits of the gambling industry, including job creation and tax revenues. However, she reaffirmed the government’s commitment to minimizing gambling harm, citing the need for enhanced protection of vulnerable consumers. A key step in this direction is the statutory gambling levy, coming into effect on 6 April.
This long-anticipated measure will require gambling operators to make contributions to fund research, prevention, and treatment of gambling harm. The first levy payments will be due by 1 October. Twycross was optimistic that the measure would ensure critical support for individuals struggling with gambling harm, mitigating some of the industry’s societal burden.
The levy will allow the expert bodies we have appointed to boost efforts to further understand, tackle, and treat gambling harm.
Baroness Twycross
The Minister also addressed concerns about gambling advertising, particularly in sports. She urged the industry to remain proactive and implement responsible advertising practices, focusing on mitigating the potential impact on problem gamblers and younger audiences. Twycross added that operators must do everything possible to avoid profiting from vulnerable individuals.
Land-Based Casinos Can Expect a Boost
Twycross also discussed the new stake limits for online slot games. These reforms, expected on 9 April and 21 May, will see a maximum stake of £5 for most players and £2 for young adults. These measures should help curb excessive spending and promote safer gaming practices. The government is also working to overhaul land-based casino regulations, allowing venues to introduce more gaming machines and offer sports betting.
These changes will unlock investment in the casino sector and should provide an economic boost for operators and machine manufacturers.
Baroness Twycross
One of the government’s top priorities is tackling the growing presence of the illegal gambling market. Twycross acknowledged the rising concerns regarding unlicensed operators and revealed updated measures to tackle this issue. New provisions in the Crime and Policing Bill will grant the Gambling Commission enhanced authority to shut down illegal online sites.
The Gambling Commission has increased disruption activity and has a renewed focus on finding innovative ways to tackle the illegal market.
Baroness Twycross
Twycross reaffirmed her commitment to ongoing engagement with industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies to ensure a level playing field and a sustainable gambling ecosystem. She emphasized that regulatory reform should not hinder business growth but make the industry safer and more transparent for operators and consumers.
