New Gambling Advertising Laws Hit UK

Controversial  gambling laws have been introduced today (september 1st 2007) that will allow UK gambling sites to advertise on tv.

The government claims the Gambling Act 2005 will protect children and vulnerable people, cut crime and keep games fair.

But the Salvation Army fears it will bring increased opportunities to gamble and the "normalisation" of an addictive activity.

And the Liberal Democrats have accused the Government of failing to make adequate provisions for potential problems with the Act.

Many gambling websites are preparing to start TV advertising.

Operators have signed up to a voluntary set of rules which set a 9pm watershed for TV commercials for gambling services, except around televised sporting events.

The Gambling Act 2005 governs nearly all forms of gambling including arcades, betting, bingo, casinos, online gambling and gambling in pubs and clubs.

It gives local authority licensing officers powers to inspect gambling premises to enforce the new laws.

Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "The Gambling Act will give the Gambling Commission and local authorities unprecedented powers to ensure gambling is conducted fairly, children and vulnerable people are protected and crime is kept out."

But the Salvation Army said the new laws allowed for a general increase in the number of gambling premises, particularly betting shops.

"Whilst some people enjoy a flutter or bet from time to time, gambling can become addictive and cause many problems," a Salvation Army spokesman said.

The Gambling Act also says bingo halls no longer have to return all stakes as prize money.

Instead, they can keep some money behind to offer as rollover prizes.