The boss of betting firm Flutter Entertainment PLC (LSE:FLTR) has warned that current technology and data rules may make it difficult to apply reforms laid out in last week’s gambling white paper.

 “It will be very difficult for us to implement these measures now,” Peter Jackson, the Paddy Power and SkyBet boss said.

He cautioned that it wasn’t clear what these changes would involve, adding “technical reforms” will be required to make the switches.

The group is expected to lose £250mln in sales, should the proposed changes be brought through in 2024, with the group already making pre-emptive adjustments prior to the White Paper release.

“The publication of the White Paper has vindicated the proactive actions we have taken to further embed safer gambling across our organisation through our Play Well strategy,” Jackson added.

“The changes will bring consistency to safer gambling protections for customers and make responsible play a priority across all operators, which we strongly support.” 

Horse racing restrictions still some furlongs away

One area of the gambling industry that could be affected by the changes is horse racing.

The tightening of affordability checks has meant that the £1.5bln industry could see an initial £15mln wiped off its value.

The horse racing industry has expressed concerns about plans to review the Horserace Betting Levy, which forces bookmakers to pay 10% of gross gambling yields (GGY).

“We call on the Government to now complete and implement this Levy review as soon as possible in order to support a great British sporting and cultural asset,” said Julia Harrington, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority.

She noted that the review had differentiated between slower-paced sports betting and casino-based games, where the fast-paced and addictive style drove the calls for a gambling review.

However, she expressed particular concern about the introduction of new financial assessments when a person loses more than £125 per month, arguing it was not necessary for betting on horse racing.

“We will continue to make our case that sweeping blanket checks on affordability are not appropriate, with any measures needing to be proportionate and targeted at individuals and their specific circumstances,” Harrington concluded.