Government asked to take heed of customers' concerns about affordability checks

Ministers have been asked to "take heed" of punters' concerns about affordability checks which are being considered as part of the government's gambling review.

Proposals that customers should hand over financial details such as bank statements and payslips as part of the checks have caused concern in the gambling industry, and for British racing's leadership.

One proposal, that as little as a £100 monthly loss should trigger such checks, has been estimated to result in a reduction in the sport's revenues of £60 million or more.

A survey carried out among 2,000 of its members by Racing TV has found that 95 per cent would not be happy for bookmakers to have access to their bank accounts to check whether they can afford to bet.

It also found that 85 per cent of those asked thought there was a danger of punters using the black market online if restrictions were implemented.

Betting and Gaming Council chief executive Michael Dugher said: "I'm alarmed at the findings – particularly the high number who believe that customers will simply move to the unsafe, unregulated black market online if blanket enhanced spending checks are introduced – and hope that ministers will take heed of punters' views.

"We strongly support the gambling review as an evidence-led process, but it's vitally important that it strikes the right balance between protecting the vulnerable and not spoiling the enjoyment of the vast majority of customers who enjoy a flutter safely and responsibly."

He went on: "Any shift to the unsafe black market would also jeopardise the £350 million a year which our members currently give to horseracing in sponsorship, media rights and the betting levy – financial support which has proved crucial during the pandemic."

Last week gambling minister Chris Philp gave his backing to affordability checks, but added they needed to be proportionate and that demanding payslips or bank statements from customers spending "£100 or so is likely to be unwelcome, disruptive and disproportionate to the risks".

Read more:

Gambling minister describes need for 'proportionate' affordability checks

Letters: our readers on the prospect of affordability checks

Government to ensure affordability checks will 'harmonise' with gambling review

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