Throughout the years, UK gambling laws have seen several modifications, like the recent restrictions on credit card use for betting and capping fixed odds betting terminals.
The anticipated introduction of a new gambling act at the end of 2020 faced delays due to the global pandemic, projecting its rollout to 2021.
The forthcoming legislation aims to chart a new path for the industry, with gradual implementation rather than an immediate overhaul. But what should we anticipate from the 2021 UK Gambling Act?
Anticipating Changes in the UK Gambling Act 2021
In-depth discussions among policymakers about the act suggest that while exact details are scarce, several industry adjustments are expected. many UK bookmakers We foresee potential changes in key industry areas, including:
VIP Schemes
One major focus of the new rules involves increased scrutiny on VIP and Reward programs, linked to concerns over potential links to gambling problems and fraud, possibly leading to their overhaul or elimination.
Similarly, transparency around loyalty points is anticipated to increase, especially concerning the value of rewards relative to player spending.
Deposit Protection For Customers
Deposit protection is a staple of the Gambling Act, yet does not cover instances of company bankruptcy. The new act aims to secure customer deposits in such scenarios.
This legislative update is likely to ensure that customer deposits remain protected even if a betting company fails.
Online Stake Limits
Hot debates around maximum wager limits continue, drawing from the fixed odds terminal limit of £2, potentially extending to slots and casino games, but likely sparing sports betting.
TV and Sport Advertising & Sponsorship
Where sports betting The act could impact sports sponsorships and advertising, possibly restricting betting ads to post-watershed slots and potentially barring gambling brands from sports shirts.
Responsible Gambling Tools
At present, betting brands The new legislation might enforce features enabling responsible gambling, such as deposit and loss caps and account suspension, potentially making these mandatory with preset limits.
Additional features could include online game pacing, self-exclusion provisions, and changes in ownership and licensing. However, this remains speculative until the act is enacted.