The long-awaited UK government’s White Paper on gambling has been released, bringing forward significant changes to how the UK gambling industry will operate. Several executives and stakeholders in the UK gambling industry, including sports betting and gaming group Entain, welcomed the publication of the review of the UK Gambling Act 2005 

Some of the major recommendations from the white paper include a maximum stake limit for slot machines, financial vulnerability and affordability checks, the creation of a non-statutory gambling ombudsman, an increase in gambling machine allowance in casinos, and a strengthening of the Gambling Commission.

In a press release, the company said that “the review contains an extensive set of proposals, many of which align with actions that Entain has already implemented.” However, Entain said it “requires comprehensive assessment and analysis, and a more detailed response will be provided as soon as it is practical.”

Jette Nygaard-Andersen

Jette Nygaard-Andersen, Entain’s CEO, commented: “The UK Gambling Act Review is an important step towards having a robust regulatory framework that is fit for the digital age and creates a level playing field for all operators. We welcome the clarity it will bring to the industry and customers.”

“In leading the industry on player protection, we have already implemented a comprehensive range of actions to protect our customers, such as our industry-leading Advanced Responsibility and Care safer gaming program, personalized online slots staking limits, and the implementation of an affordability model across the UK. We are also extremely proud to have led the industry in 2019 by voluntarily agreeing to increase our levy donations to 1% of our UK gross gaming revenues,” the CEO added.

An operator in over 40 territories around the world, the group said it is “firmly in favor of regulation that preserves the market for the vast majority of customers who enjoy recreational betting and gaming whilst also ensuring appropriate protection to all players.”

See the full UK gambling White Paper here.