Labour councillor Emma Whysall presented a motion on July 8 for urgent gambling law reform. More than 40 councils support a six-point plan advocating for councils' rights to deny gambling venue licenses that threaten community safety. Current legislation allows unrestricted licensing, leaving councils powerless against casino proliferation. In 2023/24, the gambling industry profited 15.6 billion, with machine gains alone reaching 2.5 billion. Currently, 1.3 million people face gambling-related harm, with a dramatic rise in treatment referrals reported by NHS England.
Councils, led by Brent, are urging a six-point reform plan for gambling laws. Key proposals include allowing councils to refuse gambling premises threatening local safety.
Cllr Whysall stated that the current legislation permits councils to license gambling establishments without the option to limit their quantity or density.
The gambling industry's profits rose to 15.6 billion for 2023/24, with 2.5 billion generated solely from machines, reflecting a significant increase post-pandemic.
1.3 million individuals are currently experiencing gambling harm, and there has been a reported 130% rise in referrals for gambling addiction by NHS England.
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