Gambling Prevalence Study Results…
19th September, 2007
Since the last survey done in 1999, it is reported that there has not been an increase in problem gamblers. This news will be welcomed by online gaming operators who have had restrictions placed on their advertising.
The report which was commissioned by the Gambling Commission found that 0.6% of adults in the UK have a gambling problem. Recent reports had suggested that this figure was closer to 1 million (4 times the actual number). Peter Dean, the Commission Chairman said that "The key message is that overall there has been surprisingly little change either in the number of gambling participants or to the number of problem gamblers since 1999. We remain concerned that there are still over a quarter of a million adults who are problem gamblers. The challenge, for us and for the industry, is to tackle this through the new licensing regime that has been put in place from September 1. British-based gambling operators must now comply with strict and detailed social responsibility obligations, and we will monitor how these requirements are met."
Gamcare are said to be delighted at the efforts made by both the gaming industry and its regulators. They are impressed that many sites carry the Gamcare helpline number on their sites.
Gaming operators feel vindicated by the reports. After being slated in the press in the last few months they are able to prove that there has not been an increase in problem gambling despite the online boom.
