Overview

This bill aims to significantly restrict gambling advertising on broadcast television and radio. It proposes a complete ban on such advertising before the 9 pm watershed (the point in the broadcasting day after which adult content is permitted).

Description

The Regulation of Gambling Advertising Bill seeks to amend existing gambling legislation. Its core provision is a prohibition on gambling advertisements broadcast on television and radio before 9 pm.

Offences and Penalties: Broadcasting gambling advertisements before 9 pm and after 5:30 am will constitute a criminal offence, punishable by an unlimited fine upon summary conviction.

Definition of Gambling Advertising: The bill defines advertising as any invitation to gamble (as defined in the Gambling Act 2005) via television or radio broadcasts.

Commencement: The Act will come into force six months after it receives Royal Assent.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, there may be costs associated with enforcement and potential legal challenges. Conversely, the bill might indirectly lead to savings in social welfare costs related to problem gambling if successful in reducing exposure.

Groups Affected

The bill will directly affect:

• Gambling companies: They will face significant restrictions on their advertising reach and potentially reduced profits.
• Broadcasters: They will be required to comply with the new advertising restrictions and may experience loss of advertising revenue.
• Viewers and listeners: They will experience a reduction in exposure to gambling advertisements before 9 pm.
• Problem gamblers: This group may benefit from reduced exposure to advertising that could trigger gambling urges.

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