Gambling operator levy to fund help for addiction

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by Change | 7 Jan 2009

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A levy against gambling operators is being proposed, with the proceeds funding rehab clinics for those with betting dependencies.

The government has unveiled plans to place a statutory levy on the gaming industry in order to fund rehab clinics for gambling addiction problems.

It is expected this will raise over £5 million each year and will also be used to pay for helplines and research, sports minister Gerry Sutcliffe reveals.

Unless a satisfactory guarantee is made that existing voluntary arrangements will be honoured, the new charge will come into force in the next financial year.

Mr Sutcliffe claims the Gambling Act places those who are most vulnerable, such as people with addiction problems, at its heart.

He states: "We must ensure that organisations working to prevent and treat problem gambling are given the financial security they need to carry out the important work they do."

Describing his reaction that operators have not stood up to their responsibilities in this regard as "disappointing", he claims the proposals will make sure funding is available.

In other news, the government's relaxation of rules restricting the maximum stake and prize available from slot machines has been described by Anna Drew, speaking on behalf of the Methodist Church, as something which could encourage gambling addiction.

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