UK Labour Party calls for Gambling Ombudsman
Deputy leader Tom Watson will today call for the creation of an industry ombudsman to help boost consumer protection measures
The UK Labour Party will today call for the creation of a new Gambling Ombudsman dedicated to protecting consumers from what deputy leader Tom Watson described as “predatory” industry practices.
In a speech at think tank Demos in London this morning, the West Bromwich East MP will outline his plans for a new watchdog which would provide legal safeguards and financial compensation when appropriate.
The Gambling Ombudsman would be equal to the Gambling Commission and form part of a “tripartite arrangement” consisting of a regulator to oversee operators, an ombudsman to protect consumers, and a specialist NHS programme to oversee the commissioning of research, education and treatment.
We are very excited to host a speech by the wonderful @tom_watson tomorrow. He'll talk about #gambling regulation
and #publichealth and even give you some #labour policy announcements. Tune in to the livestream at @tom_watson at 11 am and make sure you don't miss a thing!
— Demos (@Demos) June 17, 2019
In his speech, Watson will refer to previous cases where vulnerable customers were alleged to have been encouraged to continue gambling despite displaying obvious signs of problem gambling.
“What kind of system allows a dirty deal to be struck between an operator and a vulnerable person? Where is the framework of consumer protection?” Watson will say.
“I cannot think of a single other type of transactional arrangement for goods or financial services that would allow this type of situation: unclear terms and conditions, a lack of transparency, a lack of framework – and fuelled by predatory bonus offers.”
Speaking to EGR this morning, Brian Chappell of Justice for Punters echoed Watson’s calls for the creation of a Gambling Ombudsman which he said was “needed as soon as possible.”
“The long delays in settling gambling disputes in the present system are unacceptable. Even worse those with a gambling disorder who are vulnerable have nowhere to turn at present, leaving them open to unfair treatment by gambling companies.”
“Justice for Punters provided consumers to help Tom Watson develop his plans and hopefully Mims Davies the sports minister will give those people and others a voice at some point in the near future.”
Tom Watson will also today reiterate his previous calls for the Gambling Act to be overhauled.