UK gambling tax set to raise £100M for harm reduction
Gambling operators in the UK will soon face a new tax on their profits, which could be as high as 1.1% for certain types of games, as the government is aiming to raise £100...
UK government to limit online slots bets to £5
The UK government has announced online slots’ £5 per spin limit for those aged 25 and over and £2 for younger adults aged 18-24.
This new limitation comes together with a tax hike and is part of the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS)’s broader strategy. All these changes are about protecting those most at risk, especially young adults, noting how gambling harm can devastate finances, relationships, and lives.
Since the pandemic, online slot gambling has become a growing problem in the UK. Moreover, GamCare, a leading charity company, found that nearly half of its callers in 2023-2024 struggled with online slot addiction. This is a significant increase when compared to the previous years.
Gambling minister Fiona Twycross commented:
“Gambling harm can ruin people’s finances, relationships, and ultimately lives. We are absolutely committed to implementing strengthened measures for those at risk, as well as providing effective support for those affected. The introduction of the first legally mandated levy will be instrumental in supporting research, raising awareness, and reducing the stigma around gambling-related harm.”
BGC CEO Grainne Hurst said:
“BGC members voluntarily contributed over £170 million over the last four years to tackle problem gambling and gambling-related harm. This includes £50 million this year alone. They are funding an independent network of charities currently caring for 85% of problem gamblers receiving treatment in Britain. Ministers must not lose sight of the fact that the vast majority of people who enjoy a bet each month do so safely. The tone of this announcement suggests the government is at risk of losing perspective on these facts while simply dancing to the tune of anti-gambling prohibitionists, which serves no one.”
The new mandatory tax on betting companies is expected to raise £100 million annually, with most of it going to the NHS for addiction treatment, public awareness campaigns, and research.
Northern Ireland urges action on gambling advertisements
The UK Government is being urged to take action on gambling advertising in Northern Ireland, where old laws cause different harm to vulnerable groups.Unlike the Republic...
