GambleAware backs Guardian gambling ad ban as it hits out at white paper
Chief comms officer Alexia Clifford praises media giant’s proposal in the face of lacklustre measures from government on marketing
GambleAware has backed The Guardian’s decision to ban gambling advertising across its online and print output.
In a letter penned by the charity’s chief communications officer Alexia Clifford, she took the opportunity to praise the media giant for its approach.
The Guardian confirmed it would apply a blanket ban to gambling ads across its platforms, excluding lottery, after claiming the industry can lead to “addiction and financial ruin”.
The move follows that to ban fossil fuel ads in 2020.
Clifford wrote: “We welcome The Guardian’s plans to ban gambling advertising across its online and print outlets.
“At GambleAware, we’re concerned about the impact advertising and marketing can have, particularly on children and young people.
“Our research shows that 96% of 11 to 24-year-olds have been exposed to gambling marketing activities in the last month,” she added.
Clifford also took the opportunity to hit out at the white paper into the Gambling Act 2005 review, arguing that the government’s proposals will fail to fully protect those at risk of gambling-related harm.
Clifford said: “The government’s recent white paper missed an opportunity to strengthen regulation on gambling advertising and marketing. Action in this area is critical to protect young people from gambling harm.”