Gambling-related Harm — [Christina Rees in the Chair]

Mr. Bell praised the hon. Member for Swansea East and mentioned his former employment at Bet365. He highlighted the positive contributions of Bet365 to Newcastle-under-Lyme, including job creation and financial support for local charities. Mr. Bell argued against strict deposit limits due to their intrusive nature, suggesting that firms should set lower levels for young people. Aaron Bell noted the lack of protection for problem gamblers on the black market and highlighted that individuals also do not have security or problem gambling measures when placing bets outside regulated markets. Asked if the Minister and gambling Minister would consider allowing bookmakers to obtain more granular data about someone's affordability from credit reference agencies, which needs to be done carefully to avoid intrusive checks that drive people away from licensed operators.

He questioned the proposal, citing evidence from Norway where similar measures led to a significant portion of gambling conducted on black markets or dark web. Emphasised the importance of a balanced, regulated market to protect vulnerable individuals while allowing others to enjoy gambling without excessive restrictions. Highlighted the success of industry-led initiatives such as 'BeGambleAware' and mentioned lower problem gambling rates in the UK compared to other countries like Norway and France.

Mr Jones highlighted the impact of gambling-related harm, citing statistics that over 55,000 children aged between 11 and 16 are gambling addicts. He called for reforms such as an online spending limit system, stake limits for online gambling equivalent to those in fixed odds betting terminals, a statutory levy on the gambling industry to fund education and treatment, and banning gambling advertising from sports involving child exposure.

Inquired if the hon. Lady's proposal addresses the last intervention and suggested that gambling companies would not spend £1.5 billion on advertising unless they found it effective. Emphasised the cross-party support for gambling reform, citing polling data showing strong agreement among Conservative MPs on limiting player losses and regulating the industry. Criticized the gambling companies' failure to self-regulate and highlighted the harm caused by VIP rooms targeting vulnerable individuals with high debts. Stressed that debt is a major cause of family breakdown and called for urgent action to regulate the industry before more lives are destroyed.

Mr Brereton noted the decrease in problem gambling rates from 0.6% to 0.3% and highlighted the significant economic contribution of the gambling sector, including job creation and charitable donations. He emphasised that most people gamble responsibly and praised Bet365 for its investment in safer gambling measures and support for local sports clubs.

Jamie Stone cited an example of a well-off medical professional who committed suicide due to gambling addiction in the Highlands, emphasizing that gambling affects people from all sectors of society. He highlighted the need for effective protections for customers and regulation of the industry to prevent harm, including affordability measures, advertising restrictions, stake limits, and a statutory levy on the industry to fund research, education, and treatment.

Mr. Jeff Smith highlighted the growing issue of gambling-related harm, particularly online gambling among women that tripled during the pandemic and is now a public health concern. He stressed the need for stricter regulations on affordability checks, safeguards against addictive games, and better support for individuals suffering from gambling addiction. Mr. Smith also raised concerns over the lack of consistent industry contributions to safer gambling initiatives and called for increased transparency and accountability.

Jim Shannon highlighted the high rate of problem gambling in Northern Ireland, which is more than four times higher than in mainland Britain. He cited a case where a gambler's addiction led to financial difficulties and strained relationships within his family. Additionally, he mentioned that 4% of suicides among 20 to 24-year-olds are gambling-related, with an estimated 250 gambling-related suicides per year in the UK. Shannon advocated for stronger regulations and asked the Minister to take steps towards change.

Asked if the hon. Lady welcomes the reduction in advertisements for gambling seen since the whistle-to-whistle ban, and whether she supports only branding ads for companies like Bet365. Mr Gullis acknowledged the importance of reforming the gambling sector but argued that it must be done cautiously to avoid unintended consequences. He highlighted Bet365's measures such as age verification, deposit limits, affordability assessments, and problem gambling self-assessment.

Laurence Robertson raised concerns about the impact of potential losses in income from bookmakers, which could significantly affect horseracing due to its reliance on such revenue. He stressed that one problem gambler is too many but emphasized the importance of considering the financial implications for a sport heavily dependent on gambling.

Expressed concern over the impact of gambling and gaming industries on young people, citing 55,000 children with gambling addictions. Called for a bold approach to address industry practices that groom and harm young individuals.

Mr Cowan intervened, noting that Denise Coates paid herself £1 billion over four years but did not pay tax. Cowan criticised the gambling industry for not taking responsibility for its impact on society, stating that games are designed to be addictive and have caused numerous cases of addiction and family breakdowns. He highlighted the need for a statutory levy funded through the NHS to separate funding from harmful industries and stressed the importance of regulating the sector to ensure it acts responsibly.