presentation to the portfolio committee on trade and industry south africa

Presentation to thePortfolio Committee on

Trade and IndustrySouth Africa

ByPaul Bellringer OBE

Chief ExecutiveGamCare

New U.K. Gambling Bill

• Responsible gambling in regulatory framework

• Gambling Industry contributes financially

• Casino deregulation

• Remote gambling legalised

Current Situation

• Self regulated finance contributionGICT, industry dominated, fund raising difficult

• Codes social responsibility`voluntary, preparing now, helpful to all

New Act Will Require• Formal code as licence condition

workable, effective, doesn’t penalise social gamblers

• Regulator responsibleflexibility, monitor change, adjust regulation, compliance

• Levy as reserve powerif self funding fails, all commercial gambling

Financial Contribution for

• Treatment: Helpline, Counselling

• Education: Responsible gambling, raise awareness

• Research: Social impact, what works

Principle

Responsibility for an individual’s gambling is their own

Responsibility to exercise aDuty of Care

is that of the operator

Structure

Minister responsible for policy=

Regulator responsible for details & compliance

=Operator responsible for application

Key elements of Code

• Non exploitation of gambler• Encouraged to stay in control• Provide access to help• Ability to self-exclude• Training for staff

Challenge

• Maximise opportunity v minimise harm

• Freedom of choice v responsibility

• Balance achieved by strong political will; effective regulator; committed industry; effective treatment, education research; sufficient resources