The U.K. Gambling Commission (UKGC) proposes adding “affordability checks” to an ongoing review of gambling laws. Minister for Gambling and Lotteries John Whittingdale said the proposed new checks would “harmonize” with the review.
A UKGC study of remote customer interaction proposed that bettors would have to prove their income to bet after losses of as little as £100 (US$139) per month, according to the Racing Post.
Racing officials warn the sport could lose £60 million a year or more from lost levies and media rights income if bettors are bothered by intrusive questions about finances.
Conservative MP Scott Benton, chairman of the all-party parliamentary group for betting and gaming, said there is no evidence to prove affordability checks would reduce problem gambling, only “gambling overall.”
