Dear constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about betting on horses and the review of the Gambling Act 2005.

I know millions of people enjoy gambling in a safe way and I believe people are free to choose what to do in a free country. It is my view that the law should be approached from a public health perspective to protect children and vulnerable adults with more effective regulation whilst allowing others to gamble safely.

I welcome the Government’s review of the Gambling Act 2005, which was launched in December 2020. It will consider a range of issues including online stake limits, gambling advertising and age limits. It has said its intention is to find ways of introducing reforms to prevent serious harm caused by gambling addiction while allowing those who can bet safely to do so.

The call for evidence closed on 31 March 2021, and the Government has stated it will publish a White Paper outlining its vision for the sector in the near future. I will follow developments on this closely.

Problem gambling costs lives, and, in my view, we need fit-for-purpose regulation which can keep up with the changing nature of gambling online. I am disappointed the review took over a year to be launched as it meant more people have suffered from gambling-related harm without getting vital support.

Everyone has the right to spend their own money enjoying themselves. However, where a harm is clear, the Government has a duty and responsibility to tackle it.

Thank you once again for contacting me about this issue. I can assure you I will continue to bear the points you have raised in mind.

Yours Sincerely,

Peter Dowd MP