A House of Lords communications committee has recommended the UK government impose a total ban on gambling advertising 'as soon as possible'. The committee acknowledges the measure would shrink the industry but considers that justified to reduce gambling harm.
Lord Foster of Bath said the committee deliberately advocates shrinking the sector because it would benefit millions across the country. The recommendation draws on findings linking advertising to gambling harm. The committee cites research from the Sheffield Centre for Health and Related Research: a 10% reduction in betting spend could add £1.25 billion in GVA and create over 22,000 jobs.
Betting & Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst called the report 'deeply misguided'. She argued a ban would weaken, not strengthen, player protection. Hurst pointed to Italy, where the black market remains substantial after a 2019 ban, and the Netherlands, where the regulator warns against a full ban and licensed operators account for around 50% of spending.
The industry maintains that the right to advertise is what separates legal operators from illegal ones. Dan Waugh of Regulus Partners said the report rests on conflicting data and just three evidence hearings. He warned of black-market growth.
The government is not bound by the recommendations but must give a formal response. Under Prime Minister Andy Burnham expectations of tighter policy are rising: the autumn budget may include an increase in Machine Games Duty, as recommended by the Social Market Foundation.
