Audit of compliance with Code of Practice 2.1: combating problem gambling
News item
Date: 21
January 2011
The Gambling Commission (the Commission) will
shortly be undertaking spot checks to verify that the mandatory
code of practice (2.1) that relates to contributions to research,
education and treatment in respect of problem gambling is being
adhered to. This involves looking at the information provided on
operators’ regulatory returns to ensure that contributions do, in
fact, address all three aspects as required, and also that the
stated contributions have actually been received by the named
recipient.
The whole gambling industry shares a
responsibility to protect and assist the minority of gamblers who
develop gambling problems. This is reflected in a commitment sought
at the licence application stage and in the code of practice (2.1)
that applies to all licensed operators. This requires, among other
things, that operators contribute to research, education and
treatment in respect of problem gambling. We also require that
operators submit details of their contribution as part of their
regulatory returns - as the guidance to the regulatory returns
states, such contributions can be given to one or more
organisations dealing with all three aspects of problem gambling
(for example, but not necessarily, the GREaT Foundation).
Operators yet to make a contribution in
2010/11 still have time to do so. Please note that, as the
regulatory
returns form makes clear, submitting incorrect or false
information may result in a review and could ultimately lead to
revocation of an operating licence.
Ends
Notes to editors
The Gambling Commission
- 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. 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. See the Terms & Conditions section of our website
for information on legal advice.
Further information
- You can call John Travers on (0121) 230 6700, (07852) 124624 or
email him via communications@gamblingcommission.gov.uk.