Advertising Ban for Gambling Firms

As reported by Sky News

About 1,000 gambling websites based overseas will be banned from advertising in the UK under new rules when the ban it comes into force on September 1.

The aim is to stop unregulated gambling sites trying to attract UK punters, according to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Sites in the UK, Europe and other “white list” areas can advertise on TV, radio and in print media, subject to UK advertising rules.

Publishers, broadcasters and advertising companies found in breach could face fines or even imprisonment, the department warned.

To make it on to the white list, companies must show they are subject to a suitably stringent regulatory regime.

Culture Secretary James Purnell said: “I make no apology for banning adverts for websites operating from places that don’t meet our strict standards.”Protection is my number one priority.”

The new rules take effect on September 1, when the Gambling Act comes fully into force.

That legislation brings with it a relaxation of the current rules surrounding adverts for all types of gambling firms, like casinos and betting shops.

Gambling sites operating from the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Gibraltar, the Isle of Man, Alderney and other white-listed countries will still be allowed to advertise in the UK.

The announcement follows figures released recently by the Gambling Commission which showed the number of people going online to place a bet in the UK was increasing.

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