UK Gambling Regulator Delays Checks on High-Spending Gamblers After Bookmakers’ Criticism

Pictured: London, United Kingdom

The UK Gambling Commission has delayed a decision on whether to introduce financial checks for high-spending gamblers, Racing Post reported.

The regulator’s board discussed the issue at a meeting on Thursday, 21 May. Under the proposal, the checks would apply to customers with high betting spend — of £1,000 or more in 24 hours, or about $1,344.

The checks are designed to identify signs of financial vulnerability, such as missed payments or bankruptcy. They would not assess a customer’s income, impose betting limits or affect credit scores.

After the meeting, the commission said no final decision had been taken. It said it had received a large volume of evidence from a pilot of the scheme, but had not yet completed its assessment.

The gambling industry has opposed the checks in their current form.

Critics say the proposal could result in some players being asked to provide additional documents.

The commission says that in 97% of cases the checks would be carried out automatically, with no action required from the customer.

Industry figures have warned that additional checks could drive some players towards the illegal market. The Betting and Gaming Council, the main trade body for British gambling operators, has also criticised the proposal.