NLC in London. We need to focus on ensuring we maximise the benefits to our stakeholders from the merger and plan well. This is even more important given there is some uncertainty over the timing of the necessary legislation.
The number of gambling operators based overseas and targeting British consumers, mainly through their websites, is clearly of concern. The Commission has already played a full part in the comprehensive review of these operators located offshore. I’ve looked at that review, which proposes the licensing of offshore operators, with great interest since my appointment and look forward to the government announcing their recommendations for the way forward. Thirdly, while governments of all persuasions have always agreed that gambling requires regulation – the debate centres on how much. The Commission has already cut its costs and is considering with DCMS the implications for gambling regulation of the Government’s policies on localism and deregulation. There is also work to be done to overcome some long- standing anomalies such as how we deal with licences following a change in legal entity.
Technology is always increasing in complexity and this applies to the equipment used in casinos and to a degree bingo halls. How is the Gambling Commission going to keep pace with technology – recognizing the need to embrace change but ensure that it protects the interests of customers and the operators?
I want to see the Commission continue to embrace technology and innovation – as long as it is consistent with the legislation. This will clearly be important to the bingo industry with the introduction of new games and further development of electronic bingo terminals (EBTs) as well as video bingo terminals (VBTs).
The challenge for us as the regulator is to keep up with that innovation and ensure we do not impact on the industry’s economic growth. Having said that, the Commission’s technical expertise in understanding the
The industry, whilst calling for a reduction in regulation, continues to regularly seek rapid clarity on issues as diverse as: “When does skill become so devilishly skilful as to be in all respects chance?” and “When is a TV quiz in fact an unlawful lottery?”
nuances of gambling regulation is second to none - a fact demonstrated by the leading role our technical standards are playing in shaping regulatory regimes elsewhere in the world. It’s also seen in the 2,000 plus questions we answer every month from operators, regulatory partners and the public. In providing answers to detailed technical questions we strive to be as transparent and accountable as possible. The industry, whilst calling for a reduction in regulation, continues to regularly seek rapid clarity on issues as diverse as: “When does skill become so devilishly skilful as to be in all respects chance?” and “When is a TV quiz in fact an unlawful lottery?”
Last year in pursuit of clarity we published 76 documents to help businesses in their understanding of the 2005 Gambling Act. Our quick guides on issues such as ‘what to look out for when gambling online’ help the general public to understand the basic rules.
In your business life, which are the roles that you’ve undertaken that have provided experience that have been of use to you in your role as Chairman. Most of my working life was in the newspaper business, both regional and national, and for the last five years I have been particularly concerned with the regulation of TV and radio content. So I understand both business and the business of regulation.
I’ve been with Ofcom as it has begun to mature as an organisation and have learnt a lot from the experience. The Commission is at an earlier stage in its development
Bingo Life 19
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