The government will announce plans in its gambling white paper later today which includes plans for a levy on gambling companies and affordability checks to help problem gamblers.
Ahead of the release writing in The Times, Lucy Frazer, the culture secretary, said that gambling apps on mobile phones have for some become “a trapdoor to despair and isolation” and promises to “redress the power imbalance between punters and operators.”
In the article she describes the “maze” of sports betting, virtual slot machines, roulette wheels and blackjack tables instantly available on many apps, adding that
“Many enjoy these features – but within their means, infrequently or on particular event – but sadly we know this does not apply to everyone.”
The proposals will include the introduction of affordability checks to protect problem gamblers.
The compulsory levy on gambling firms which at the moment is voluntary, is expected to be 1% of net revenue and could raise £140 million a year for education, treatment and research.
