Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Review of the Gambling Act 2005

22 July 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Scott Benton raised concerns about review of the gambling act 2005 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The MP highlighted the importance of the gambling industry, which supports over 119,000 jobs and contributes significantly to local economies.
  • The Minister emphasised the Government's aim to ensure that gamblers can do so in a safe way, focusing on up-to-date legislation and protections.
  • The review aims to find a balance between protecting people from harm and maintaining freedom of choice, with a focus on evidence-based policy making.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

The MP highlighted the importance of the gambling industry, which supports over 119,000 jobs and contributes significantly to local economies such as Blackpool. He emphasised that the review should balance economic benefits with protection against problem gambling. The speech also addressed concerns about the black market in gambling, the role of the Gambling Commission, advertising restrictions, consumer redress systems, land-based casinos, charity lotteries, and the need for a balanced approach to regulation.

Other contributors (1)
  • John Whittingdale Con Maldon

    Congratulated Scott Benton on obtaining the debate and reiterated the Government's vision for gambling reform, focusing on ensuring that millions of people can gamble safely while protecting players from harm.

Government Response

Eleanor Laing

The Minister emphasised the Government’s aim to ensure that gamblers can do so in a safe way and outlined their vision for up-to-date legislation and protections. She highlighted the review's goal of finding a balance between protecting people from harm and maintaining freedom of choice, noting the importance of evidence-based policy making. The Minister also discussed the need for a holistic approach, considering cross-sector issues and future innovations. Mention was made of ongoing work on play controls, consumer redress systems, land-based gambling sector restrictions, advertising rules, and the Gambling Commission’s role and funding. She concluded by expressing gratitude to staff during the recess.

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