Confidential intelligence line proving its worth

Press release

Date: 2 December 2010

The Gambling Commission’s (the Commission) confidential intelligence line designed to allow gamblers, licensed operators and sports people alike to 'tip-off' the authorities on illicit gambling has been effective during its first six months of operation.

In its first six months of operation the line has received over 120 calls, a significant number of which contributed to ongoing criminal and regulatory investigations. The largest topic area for calls has been in the area of illegal gaming machines supply along with a cross-section of other issues including matters relevant to the work of the Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit.

The new line (0121 230 6655) was formally launched in May of this year and allows individuals to make anonymous reports to help the Commission tackle both illegal unlicensed gambling and non-compliant licensed gambling. The line is staffed by the Commission’s existing intelligence experts between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday (a message can be left outside of these hours) and to date calls have been received on almost every day the line has been open.

The Commission’s Director of Regulation, Nick Tofiluk said:

“The Gambling Commission’s Confidential Intelligence Line (0121) 230 6655 is actively helping keep gambling fair and safe for all.

“Every call is assessed and then acted upon so if you know or suspect that illicit gambling is taking place then help keep gambling safe by calling the Commission on (0121) 230 6655.”

Ends

Notes to editors

The Gambling Commission

  1. 1. The Gambling Commission (the Commission) regulates gambling in the public interest alongside its co-regulators local licensing authorities. It does so by keeping crime out of gambling, by ensuring that gambling is conducted fairly and openly, and by protecting children and vulnerable people from being harmed or exploited by gambling. The Commission also provides independent advice to government on gambling in Britain.
  2. 2. The Commission and local licensing authorities are responsible for licensing and regulating all gambling in Great Britain other than the National Lottery and spread betting, which are the responsibility of the National Lottery Commission and the Financial Services Authority (FSA) respectively.
  3. 3. See the Terms & Conditions section of our website for information on legal advice.

Further information

  1. You can call John Travers on (0121) 230 6700, (07852) 124624 or email him via communications@gamblingcommission.gov.uk.