GB Gambling Commission Expects Consultation on Statutory Levy

Ian Angus, the director of policy at the GB Gambling Commission, disclosed during a recent event that the DCMS is set to launch its consultation on the statutory levy. This move is part of the broader efforts to implement the recommendations outlined in the Gambling Act review white paper.

The statutory levy, once enacted, would require gambling operators to contribute a specific sum to the Commission. These funds would then be allocated towards research, education, and treatment (RET) programs aimed at addressing issues related to gambling harm. Initially, the white paper had indicated that the DCMS' consultation on the levy would take place in the summer of 2023.

Angus elaborated on how the recommendations from the white paper could be transformed into official policy. He categorized the levy as part of "secondary legislation" in this process.

"As many of you will know, the government published its Gambling Act review white paper in April," he said. "But how will change be made? Firstly, legislative change made by the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport. This will be through both primary legislation, when parliamentary time allows, and through secondary legislation, such as in the case of the statutory levy."

"While we're on the levy, we are expecting DCMS to launch their consultation on the levy soon, which will be your chance to make your case."

The first round of consultations is currently underway and will remain open until October 18th. These consultations encompass financial risk assessments, enhancing consumer options for direct marketing, designing online games, and enforcing age verification in brick-and-mortar gambling establishments.

Angus noted that the Commission is progressing towards the second round of consultations, which they plan to publish in early winter. The specifics of the topics for the second consultation have yet to be confirmed.

Continuing discussions about the white paper, Angus highlighted the introduction of a gambling ombudsman scheme as a significant aspect. The proposal for an ombudsman was a surprising addition to the white paper.

"As many of you will know, the current state of play is that the industry has been challenged to design an ombudsman. This will be fully independent, in line with ombudsman association standards, and is credible with customers," Angus explained. "Only when we and DCMS are satisfied with its scope and independence, will we explore how best to ensure that customers of all licensees have access to it."

He added that the ombudsman scheme will be developed as they move into the new year. Accompanying this will be modifications to the Licence Conditions and Codes of Practice (LCCP), which are the Commission's regulatory guidelines for licensees. Angus noted that these modifications would require consultation, leading to multiple consultation windows in the coming years.