Currently, at the top of the most profitable markets, the gambling industry has undergone strict regulations since 2005 to protect citizens’ health and financial stability.

The Gambling Act 2005 is the newest act regulating this industry, put in place by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). But what exactly are the main changes that impacted the gambling market?

The history of gambling regulation throughout time

The first efforts to impose specific rules regarding gambling laws were made in 1698, when the initial parliamentary act was issued. The new regulation made all lotteries illegal unless operating under the Government’s authority. At the start of the 20th century, bingo halls and lotteries were legalised through the 1934 Act, succeeded by the Betting and Gaming Act of 1960.

These acts made smaller lotteries become legal, and bingo halls started running as members’ only clubs. However, the 1963 Gambling Act caused the massive development of this market, as more land-based casinos became more common.

The current state of the gambling laws

In 2005, there was a necessity for adapting the gambling laws, and that’s when The Gambling Act 2005 was initiated. The new regulations were meant to combat gambling addiction and protect defenceless adults, especially minors.

Also, another main goal of The Gambling Act 2005 was the formation of the central authority that handles all gambling-related issues, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC).

The primary objectives of The Gambling Act 2005

The primary purpose of The Gambling Act 2005 was to implement a more equitable approach to the gambling industry. Therefore, the following goals the new regulations had to meet:

– Promotion of transparency and impartiality toward gambling activities

– Offer protection for under-aged people or for the ones that struggle with addiction

– Prevent illegal activities through gambling establishments

– The establishment of an institution regulating and guarding the enforcement of these laws

What is UKGC?

The United Kingdom Gambling Commission, simply known as UKGC, is a national Government’s public body responsible for regulating, supervising and imposing gambling laws in Great Britain. Among other responsibilities of the UKGC is the issue of licences for all gambling operators targeting UK customers. The authority can also impose fines or even revoke licences from operators that do not meet the requirements or follow the legal procedure.

Overall, the UKGC handles monitoring how operators act to ensure the operators strictly follow the regulations of The Gambling Act 2005. Also, the UKGC is involved in recommending to the local and national authorities any gambling-related issues that may arise in the industry.

How do you recognise legal casino operators?

If you want to ensure the gambling operator you choose is the best fit for you, you have to make sure the gambling operator of your choice follows the legal procedure so that you are protected. Therefore, one of the main criteria you need to verify before engaging in any gambling activity is if the United Kingdom Gambling Commission licences the casino operator.

It is a good sign if the leading authority licences the gambling operator you pick, as it means it complies with all legal procedures, protects its customers and prevents gambling addiction while promoting responsible gambling. The most legit operators that may provide you with such services also include them on their platform self-exclusion programmes.

What are self-exclusion programmes?

The UKGC wants to ensure the protection of all games of luck players, so the main objective is the protection of customers. Therefore, each UKGC-licenced gambling platform must be a member of the GamStop programme, a particular self-exclusion programme. Online casinos part of this programme permit their customers to choose a period of time between six months and five years, during which they won’t be able to access the website.

The prospects of the gambling law

In June 2022, the Government announced a new set of rules regarding gambling activity across the United Kingdom. One of the main changes that will influence the market’s growth is the ban on free bets. This measure is taken as the Government claims that casino operators encourage irresponsible gambling by offering many types of bonuses to engage players in betting more.

Another new implementation will be the introduction of a maximum stake of between £2 and £5 for online gambling operators. Also, operators offering gambling services need to include affordability checks – problematic gamblers must prove they can afford to keep playing. Moreover, any quick games that cause significant losses must be taken down.

In practice, the effects may make the withdrawal process take a longer time and fewer players may even get to that point. Citing data from CasinoAlpha UK the extra documents needed to access withdrawals may mean that players will keep playing instead of cashing out.

When will the new gambling law be issued?

In July 2022, the Government announced that the white paper on the UK gambling law reform would be postponed for the fourth time amid the recent disturbance in the Conservative party. However, soon there will be a new discussion on the matter as campaigners claim this delay can cost the health of citizens.

More changes to the UK’s gambling law

As the market keeps expanding, the gambling rules will have to keep up. The gambling law must remain relevant as there are continuous changes in the gambling domain, especially in the online sector.

Be Gamble Aware

DISCLAIMER: Gambling involves risk and you must not gamble with funds you can’t afford to lose. It is not a solution to any financial difficulty. Remember, the house always wins!

If you believe you’re suffering from a gambling addiction or know anyone who does, call the National Gambling Helpline at 0808-8020-133 right away. Their advisors can help make gambling safe for you.

All gambling sites and guides are 18+ only. Online casinos listed here may not be available in your region. Don’t forget to check local laws to make sure it’s legal where you’re based.

Check out the free gambling addiction resources from these organisations: