There are only 21 days left until the Government's consultation on the 2005 Gambling Act closes. This is our best chance for some time to come to see real changes to Britain's gambling legislation. The Government has already been besieged with suggestions for radical changes to clean up out-of-control gambling. So, HAVE YOUR SAY before it's too late.
Don't be put off by the way the consultation is presented. It asks a series of quite specific questions, almost all asking for 'evidence', when they must know that really convincing evidence that would stand up to scrutiny is lacking on most of their questions. We can say what we want any way we like. I think we only have to answer any questions we can or just have our say even if it doesn't fit in to any of their specific questions.
Look for: Gov.UK/Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport/Review of the Gambling Act 2005 Terms of Reference and Call for Evidence.
They don't ask the really big questions that need asking, such as: Is the 2005 Gambling Act at all fit for purpose or should it be replaced now with a new Act? Should a totally new public health model be adopted as the basis for legislation? and Is Digital, Culture, Media and Sport the right or wrong Government department to be leading on gambling. I am afraid they may be minded to recommend piecemeal changes which will leave the basics unchanged. I hope I am wrong! The more people tell them what we think, the more difficult it will be for them to duck the big questions.
