UK Gambling Commission launch new enforcement strategy

The UK Gambling Commission has implemented changes to its enforcement strategy, effective today (Wednesday, July 5), targeting operators who breach gambling regulations.

The ‘Consumer First’ changes to the enforcement policy include:

The introduction of higher financial penalties for breaches, particularly for systemic and repeated failings.

Putting all regulatory tools, including licence review (both of the operator and personal management licences), on an equal footing by removing the current bias in favour of settlement.

Using time-limited discounts to create better incentives for early settlement.

“We will use the full range of enforcement powers to ensure operators put customers first and raise standards,” Sarah Harrison, chief executive of the Gambling Commission said.

“The industry can be assured that we will use our powers in a targeted way, and consumers and the public can be assured we will take robust and effective action when gambling companies don’t meet their obligations.”

More on the Gambling Commission’s responses to its enforcement strategy consultation at: http://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news-action-and-statistics/Consultations/Closed-consultations-with-response/Changes-to-our-enforcement-strategy.aspx