Backlash Grows
Hopes are soaring today that a controversial gambling crackdown will be scrapped as the backlash grows to more than 100,000 punters. A petition against proposed affordability checks on betting has galloped into six-figures, triggering a debate in Parliament.
Crackdown Details
The government's plan involves sweeping bank details of anyone who loses £125 in a month or £500 in a year. This could disproportionately affect people living in poorer areas, with harsher monitoring measures in place.
Frictionless Checks
The government insists that the affordability checks will be "frictionless" and punters will not be aware of them. These checks are seen as vital to prevent problem gambling, but industry bosses argue that they could cost £250 million in revenue and pose a risk to sports like horseracing.
Debate in Parliament
The petition with over 100,000 signatures has triggered a debate in the Commons. Julie Harrington, Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, emphasized the importance of this debate and called for proper scrutiny of the proposed policy.
Industry Consultation
The government spokesperson stated that they are working closely with the industry to replace the current system of checks with a more proportionate and data-sharing based system. The aim is to protect those most vulnerable to gambling harm.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/money/shoppers-go-crazy-for-1-99-quality-street-boxes-at-bargain-supermarket/
