Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Casinos

Thursday 24 March 2022 · 4 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The matters raised are being considered to balance economic viability with player safety.
  • The Gambling Commission ensures any licensee is fit and proper, meeting statutory obligations.
  • Online gambling poses serious risks, and the White Paper is being prepared imminently.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Scott Benton
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The Gambling Act 2005 review aims to modernise legislation governing casinos, addressing sports betting and electronic payments.

Question

What steps her Department is taking to review legislation governing casinos. The review provides an opportunity to update the legislation for the modern age, allowing sports betting and electronic payments while reviewing machine-to-table ratios. Will he commit to examining these changes?

Answer from Chris Philp

The matters raised are being considered. We need to balance economic viability with player safety and will look into improving current rules. Seven unused casino licences exist.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to examining specific changes requested

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Q2 Scott Benton
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

Concerns about the awarding of a national lottery licence to a company with potential links to Gazprom.

Question

When the White Paper is published, it must tackle issues like gambling licences and the concerns raised about a new provider with possible Russian regime ties. Can he confirm confidence in this provider?

Answer from Chris Philp

The Gambling Commission ensures any licensee is fit and proper, meeting statutory obligations. The commission has assured me of thorough inquiries and UK secure vetting will begin shortly.

Answered
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Q3 Alex Davies-Jones Lab Pontypridd
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

Importance of bingo halls and adult gaming centres to community life, especially in seaside towns.

Question

Bingo halls and adult gaming centres are vital for socialising, particularly among the elderly. Redcar lost Beacon Bingo during the pandemic but still has some fantastic venues. May I invite the Minister to visit these centres in action?

Answer from Chris Philp

Recognises importance of bingo halls and adult gaming centres for vibrant communities, aiming to ensure their prosperity. Will enjoy visiting famous locations like Redcar's lemon top ice cream.

Not addressed: Importance and future of bingo halls and adult gaming centres

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Q4 Jacob Young
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

The Gambling Act was largely successful but does not address online gambling adequately.

Question

Despite its success, the 2005 Act predated online gambling. It is essential to update legislation for this issue. When will we see the White Paper?

Answer from Chris Philp

Online gambling poses serious risks and we discussed Jack Ritchie's suicide due to gambling addiction, highlighting the need for action. We are thinking carefully without rushing and will publish imminently.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific timing of White Paper publication

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