Gambling Commission Data

17 NOVEMBER 2023
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Gambling Commission Data

The Gambling Commission Data includes information published by the regulatory body responsible for licensing and overseeing individuals and businesses that provide gambling services in England, Wales, and Scotland. This includes the regulation of activities like bingo, betting shops, and the National Lottery. The regulation of gambling premises is managed in collaboration with local licensing authorities (usually the local council), although in certain cases, national authorities may intervene.

Key Responsibilities of the Gambling Commission Data

The Gambling Commission maintains a national register of Licensed Gambling Premises and Operators. This register provides information such as:

  • Address of the premises.
  • Name of the operator.
  • Type of gambling activity licensed, including:
    • Bingo
    • Betting Shops
    • Adult Gaming Centres
    • Family Entertainment Centres
    • Casinos (including those under the 2005 Gambling Act)
    • Pool Betting
    • Betting Intermediaries

This register is populated using data provided by local licensing authorities and gambling businesses. It is updated as licenses are granted, renewed, or amended.

Operator’s Licences and Trading Names

In addition to premises licenses, companies offering gambling services require an operator’s licence if:

  • They operate multiple premises (e.g., companies like Ladbrokes or Paddy Power).
  • They trade online-only (e.g., Betpoint Group UK Limited).
    Operators must also declare all trading names, ensuring transparency. For instance, Betpoint Group UK Limited operates under trading names like Pokerplex24 and Casinoplex.
Recent Updates and Legislation

The Gambling Commission operates under the Gambling Act 2005, which has been updated to address:

  • Online gambling regulations, ensuring fairness, transparency, and safeguards against problem gambling.
  • Advertising standards, requiring clear and responsible messaging.
  • Enhanced measures for player protection, including stricter age verification and affordability checks.

The Gambling White Paper 2023 proposed further reforms, including:

  • Mandatory stake limits for online slots.
  • A statutory levy on operators to fund problem gambling support.
  • Enhanced powers for the Gambling Commission to regulate emerging technologies and platforms.
Key Challenges and Reliance on Local Authorities

While the national register provides comprehensive oversight, it relies on accurate and timely information from local licensing authorities and operators. Inconsistencies in reporting can lead to delays or inaccuracies in the register.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gambling Commission Data?

Gambling Commission Data refers to licensing information published by the UK Gambling Commission. This includes data about gambling accounts, licence holders, active gambling operations, regulatory compliance and enforcement actions.

What kinds of terms and definitions are used in Gambling Commission Data?

The published data employ standard definitions under UK law (primarily the Gambling Act 2005 and related legislation). Examples include what counts as an “active number of accounts”, what is meant by “new account registrations”, different licence types (remote, non-remote, etc.), and operational or financial return categories for different sectors like casinos, betting, bingo or family entertainment centres.

How often is Gambling Commission Data updated and what time periods does it cover?

Many datasets or statistics are updated on a regular basis (e.g. quarterly or annually) depending on the type of return or report. The data will typically cover recent time periods (e.g. the last 3 months for active accounts under certain definitions) as well as historical trends so that changes over time can be assessed.

Gambling Act 2005 The core legislation governing gambling activities in Great Britain, detailing licensing requirements and regulatory responsibilities.

Gambling Commission: Apply for a Licence Offers guidance for businesses and individuals on how to apply for operator or premises licences.

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