Response to Gambling Commission’s Six-month Affordability Checks Pilot Raises Concerns

Conservative MP Laurence Robertson expressed his cautious optimism about the interim code proposed by the Gambling Commission, stating that while it brings some standardization, concerns still remain. He emphasized the potential for change in the limits and uncertainties following the upcoming election. Robertson also stressed the separation of issues, questioning the impact of levy changes on racing’s affordability losses. The commission’s plans involve introducing checks in two stages.

The initial checks will focus on customers with a net deposit exceeding £150 a month, starting at £500 a month from August 30 and decreasing to £150 a month from February 28. The enhanced checks, which will replace the interim system if implemented, will undergo a pilot without affecting punters to test various forms of data for customer risk assessment. Sean Trivass, chairman of the Horseracing Bettors Forum, noted that customers affected by the measures are finally being heard, expressing opposition to affordability checks and sharing of personal financial information. He also expressed concerns about potential effects on the racing industry and emphasized the need to ensure data protection.

The viewpoints of Robertson and Trivass reflect the cautious optimism and concerns surrounding the proposed interim code and its potential impact on gambling and the racing industry.