UK councils call for curb on betting advertisements

The Local Government Association (LGA), formed of local councils in the UK, has said betting-related advertising needs “greater restrictions” in order to minimise the risk of young people developing gambling problems.

In a statement on its website, the LGA cited research that said almost one in nine children aged 11-15 are “following” gambling companies on social media, adding that the second highest rates of problem gambling lie in the 16-24 age category.

The LGA also highlighted figures from Ofcom, the UK broadcast regulator, which show that gambling advertising soared by 5,000% between 2007 – when betting firms were first allowed to advertise on television – and 2012.

Cllr Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: “Gambling advertising on television has rocketed since the Gambling Act came into force in 2007, which is a major concern for councils who are aware of the personal harm that problem gambling can cause.

“The rise in both televised sporting events, such as Premier League football, and gambling advertising means viewers, particularly children, are being exposed to increasing amounts of gambling brands and betting messages.

“While the Gambling Act was intended to position gambling as an acceptable leisure activity, we are concerned that the volume of gambling advertising goes beyond what can be deemed the right balance between socially responsible growth and protecting individuals and communities.

“The Government should seriously consider tighter restrictions on gambling advertising that is easily accessible to, and seen by children.”

The LGA has also backed calls for the government to lower the maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs).

The machines have been the subject of debate, with campaign groups and many MPs wanting the top stake to be cut from £100 (€114/$134) per spin to just £2.

In its Budget submission, the LGA has declared its support for this move, adding that cumulative impact tests should also be introduced to “enable councils to reject applications for new betting shops where there are already existing clusters of shops when government announces its imminent review of gaming machines and social responsibility measures”.

Blackburn added: “Councils are increasingly frustrated over their lack of powers to curb the proliferation of FOBTs – which currently exceed 34,000 in the UK – and the concentration of betting shops on high streets.

“Lowering maximum FOBT stakes to £2 in line with other gaming machines would help protect those at risk of problem gambling from incurring higher losses.

“Councils are not anti-bookies, but a new cumulative impact test would give them the power to veto new betting shops – and FOBTs – in places where there are already existing clusters.

“Problem gambling can lead to spiralling debt, deteriorating mental health and wellbeing, and a toll on society – and taxpayers – through crime and disorder, family breakdown and homelessness.

“It’s vital that improved social responsibility measures are implemented to help to reduce this.”

Related article: Paddy Power Betfair backs proposed FOBT restrictions – report