Online casinos should be forced to cut maximum stakes to the same £2 limit as FOBTs, according to a cross-party group of MPs in the UK.
The Gambling Related Harm All-Party Parliamentary Group has published its interim report into the online gambling sector following a six-month inquiry, raising concern about a lack of action from both Government and the UK Gambling Commission to address harms.
The group argued that there is “no justification” for online slot games to have stake levels above £2, in line with land-based games. The report also raised concerns that the Gambling Commission is not fit for purpose.
The group has called on online gambling operators to sign its “Charter for Regulatory Reform” to signal their intention and support for the policy proposals and recommendations, outlined in its report.
The key recommendations include:
• Stake and prize limits to be urgently introduced online.
• A ban on the use of credit cards for gambling
• Improved affordability checks, with banks given an increased role
• A restriction on VIP accounts
• Greater action to deal with the inappropriate use of NDAs in customer settlements
The group, chaired by Carolyn Harris MP, took evidence from academics, problem gamblers, banks, charities and online gambling operators. It has yet to meet with the Gambling Commission ahead of the release of a full report published following final hearings.
Harris 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.
“It is not at all clear why the Gambling Commission 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.
“I also urge the Government to urgently review the provision of research, education and treatment in the sector. Gamble Aware are not effectively carrying out this function and it should immediately be brought into a public health setting.”
