Gambling industry abuses show urgent action needed on gambling

The government is failing to address one of the "major moral crises of our time" by delaying action on gambling reform, CARE has said.

Today, it emerged that two firms have been fined a total of £7.1 million by the Gambling Commission for failing to protect customers.

32 Red Limited, which runs 32red.com, will have to pay £4.2m and Platinum Gaming Limited, which runs unibet.co.uk, £2.9m.

The Commission noted that one customer was allowed to deposit £43,000 and lose £36,000 within seven days through bets.

James Mildred, Director of Comms and Engagement at CARE, said:

“The behaviour of gambling companies handed fines this week is utterly disgraceful and should be condemned strongly by people on each side of the political aisle. Sadly, it is only the latest example of odious activity.

"Regulation of big betting in our country is totally unfit for purpose. Stories like today’s underline this fact. British punters are being preyed upon by a predatory industry that is callous to their suffering, and the suffering of those they love.

“We know betting is responsible for one suicide every single day. We are also witnessing endemic health and financial harms. Yet companies continue to bombard the most vulnerable with ads, infect sport, and rake in record profits.

"Gambling's impact in society is one of the major moral crises of our time, and something the government must act on. Campaigners and grieving families demand action now to make big betting accountable and put the vulnerable first.

"We call on Ministers to publish the long-awaited whitepaper, and for this to include a range of robust measures. CARE supports a statutory levy to fund gambling treatment, restrictions on ads, and other moves to protect children.”

“Any reforms must also ensure we have a Gambling Commission with real teeth that continue to hold gambling firms’ feet to the fire.”