Image: Staphanie Peacock. Image Source.

Since Labour’s election victory in July, there has been much discussion about the implications for the gambling industry.

The shelving of a drafted gaming bill, which outlined a significant shift in the regulatory landscape, has led to uncertainty.

What this means for the future of betting shops, gaming companies and online casinos is now unclear and has resulted in concerns surrounding consumer protection.

However, the new gambling minister Stephanie Peacock, was quick to point out that she has already been in contact with relevant bodies to ensure treatment and education is at the forefront of what labour wants to promote within the industry: “I have already met a number of charities and organisations that work to prevent gambling harms, providing a range of treatment, education and advice.”

Consumer protection within the gambling industry was also mentioned in Labour’s manifesto:

“Labour is committed to reducing gambling-related-harm. Recognising the evolution of the gambling landscape since 2005, Labour will reform gambling regulation, strengthening protections. We will continue to work with the industry on how to ensure responsible gambling.”

In addition to what this will mean for consumers, there has also been a consideration for the implication for stakeholders with the need to be agile and engage proactively with MPs critical during this uncertain period. Some industry leaders, like the Betting & Gaming Council are hopeful that the industry will flourish under a Labour government. Betting & Gaming Council Chair, Michael Dugher, has said this:

“On hard-pressed high streets through bookmakers, in the leisure and tourism sector through casinos and bingo halls and in tech, where our members are genuine world beaters, this is a sector ready to contribute on growth, jobs and investment in the economy.”

Labour’s plans for the gambling industry have not yet been clarified and until they are, this is sure to be a topic of discussion among those within the industry.