Several Members of Parliament have urged ministers to rethink affordability checks during a debate held at Westminster Hall on Monday. This marked the first opportunity for MPs to scrutinise the proposed implementation of the so-called "seamless" checks, following a petition signed by 100,000 individuals that prompted the debate.
Representatives such as Matt Hancock, who represents Newmarket, Connor McGinn of St Helens North encompassing Haydock, and Philip Davies presented arguments against the checks. Despite their concerns, Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew stated that the government and Gambling Commission had taken note of the feedback. Nevertheless, the proposals are set to proceed, with a trial run of enhanced checks planned to run for at least four months, during which any arising issues will be addressed by the commission.
Andrew emphasised the significant concerns regarding the potential impact of these checks on the horse racing industry, assuring that they are being treated with utmost seriousness. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that the checks do not negatively affect racing or its stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals such as owners and trainers who contribute to the sport.
The Gambling Commission has collaborated closely with operators to address the practical aspects of implementing the checks. Andrew acknowledged an improved relationship between the commission and the industry, attributing this to careful consideration of responses to consultations, which have helped shape the implementation strategy.
In response, Shadow Gambling Minister Stephanie Peacock urged the government to clarify how it would guarantee that checks are "accurate, seamless, and non-intrusive for consumers." She stressed the need to update regulations to better safeguard vulnerable individuals from the harms of gambling in the modern era. Peacock also called for transparency regarding how the government plans to conduct affordability checks accurately and without causing unnecessary friction for responsible gamblers, racing enthusiasts, and the gambling industry as a whole.