Following threats that the UK government would impose statutory levies on the
gambling industry if not enough money was given by UK gambling operators
for the purpose of treatment and research in problem gambling, these operators
have finally agreed to a three year voluntary funding arrangement.
The new arrangement has been met with the approval of the UK Sports Minister,
Gerry Sutcliffe, who has now dropped the threat of statutory levies.
The new deal will mean that the research, education and treatment of problem
gambling in the United Kingdom will receive a £15 million boost in funds.
The UK Gambling Commission warned last year that it would be £1.2 million
out of pocket if not enough funds were raised for this cause.
Gerry Sutcliffe, speaking to the press, said: "I am very pleased that we have
managed to secure the future of this important work, without the need for new
legislation. I have been particularly impressed with the industry's commitment
to social responsibility and the fact that millions of pounds have already been
pledged."
Sutcliffe also praised the high sums that the industry has promised to raise
for the cause. "It is right that the new fundraisers are ambitious in their
plans to get over £5 million per year," he said. "We need the whole industry
to sign up to help support those with gambling addiction problems and to provide
better preventative action."
However, Sutcliffe was adamant that the industry stick by its promises to
raise the required amount, otherwise he warned that he would have no qualms
about reintroducing his plans to force UK gambling operators to pay up by force.
"The protection of vulnerable people remains my number one priority and I
will not be giving the industry a second chance to put this right," he said.
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