Labour Under Pressure as MPs Push for New Gambling Laws in the U.K.

Labour’s leadership is under growing pressure from within its own ranks, as more backbench MPs call for an overhaul of Britain’s gambling laws. Concerns about the rising social costs linked to betting are fueling demands for tougher safeguards, creating the potential for a clash between the government and powerful donors connected to the industry.

The momentum for reform is being driven by the recently revived All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Gambling Reform. Headed by Conservative MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the group has launched a detailed review into the future of gambling regulation in the UK. It is inviting contributions from political figures, industry representatives, and health experts, with evidence submissions due by 12 September 2025.

This inquiry revisits key issues raised in the 2023 Gambling White Paper and questions whether laws such as the Gambling Act 2005 are still suitable in the modern, digital environment. Areas under examination include online safety measures, financial checks, a mandatory levy on operators, maximum stake limits for online slots, the powers of the Gambling Commission, and the possibility of establishing an independent ombudsman for gambling disputes. The objective is to ensure regulations reflect today’s challenges and offer stronger protection for British consumers.

Growing Support Among Labour Backbenchers

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Calls for stronger legislation are not just coming from the opposition benches. A significant number of Labour MPs, particularly those elected in 2024, are throwing their weight behind the APPG’s goals. Notable figures such as Beccy Cooper, Sarah Coombes, Andrew Pakes, and Alex Ballinger have voiced support for replacing the Gambling Act 2005 with new legislation designed for the digital age.

Supporters of change believe the law should give authorities the power to ban highly addictive products, stop gambling promotions aimed at under-18s, and reduce the visibility of betting in sports advertising. There is also growing concern about the impact of gambling addiction on certain groups, including veterans, with campaigners urging tougher controls on the industry’s marketing practices.

Treating Gambling as a Public Health Issue

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Among the more ambitious proposals is the idea of shifting responsibility for gambling regulation from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to the Department of Health and Social Care. This would classify gambling as a public health matter rather than a recreational issue. Advocates of the move argue that this change would better reflect the scale of harm, with an estimated one million people in the UK potentially affected by gambling addiction.

Policy organisations such as the Fabian Society are also encouraging the government to take a more hardline approach, including the potential removal of certain high-risk gambling products from the market. While the DCMS has defended its existing actions such as setting stake limits for online slots and introducing a statutory levy worth £100 million a year for treatment and research, many believe a stronger response is needed to protect the public.

According to Casino.com, gambling continues to be a popular pastime in Britain, with millions of people engaging in activities ranging from sports betting and casino games to bingo and lotteries. The industry generates significant tax revenue and provides thousands of jobs across the country. However, the rise of online platforms means gambling is now accessible at all hours, increasing the risk for those vulnerable to addiction. Experts warn that this ease of access can lead to financial hardship, mental health problems, and strain on personal relationships. For many British residents, betting remains a harmless leisure activity, but for others, it can quickly spiral into a serious and harmful habit.

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Industry Links Complicate Labour’s Position

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Labour’s historic ties to the gambling industry are adding a layer of complexity to reform discussions. In the run-up to the 2024 general election, the party received more than £400,000 in donations from gambling companies. Senior party figures, including Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, have accepted contributions from major operators such as Bet365. Former Labour MPs, like Michael Dugher, now hold prominent lobbying positions in the betting sector, keeping close links between the industry and the party.

These connections have led to concerns among pro-reform MPs that the leadership might hesitate to introduce strong regulatory measures. Such doubts grew after signs emerged that the government had softened its stance on other contentious issues, such as welfare policy. Even so, the arrival of many new MPs without ties to the industry could help reform advocates build momentum for change.

Beyond the White Paper

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While the government has acted on parts of the 2023 White Paper, such as capping online slot stakes and implementing a statutory levy, critics believe these steps do not go far enough. Missing from the proposals are tougher advertising rules and updated licensing requirements, which many argue are essential in addressing gambling-related harm.

The APPG’s review aims to highlight where the White Paper fell short and propose additional protections. Possible recommendations include a ban on gambling sponsorship in sports, stricter controls on marketing, and tighter oversight of newer betting models, including crypto-based gambling platforms. Campaigners believe these measures would bring UK gambling laws more in line with the realities of the modern marketplace.

The Advertising and Sponsorship Debate

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One of the most hotly debated issues is the strong link between gambling and professional sports, especially football. Critics claim that allowing Premier League clubs to set their own sponsorship guidelines has made it easier for betting brands to maintain a high profile in the sport. This has raised concerns about the influence such marketing has on young fans and vulnerable groups. Calls are increasing for legally enforceable restrictions on betting sponsorships and advertisements, with campaigners warning that voluntary measures are unlikely to provide adequate protection.

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Conclusion

The debate over the future of the UK’s gambling laws is intensifying, with growing cross-party support for stronger safeguards and a shift toward treating gambling as a public health issue. While Labour faces the challenge of balancing reform with its historical industry ties, the revived APPG on Gambling Reform has created fresh momentum for change. As the September 2025 evidence deadline approaches, the government will need to decide whether incremental measures are enough, or if more sweeping legislation is required to address the realities of a digital, 24/7 betting environment. Whatever the outcome, the coming months are set to be pivotal in shaping the country’s approach to gambling for years to come.

FAQs

1. Why are UK MPs talking about changing gambling laws?
They think old laws don’t protect people enough, especially with online gambling.

2. What is the APPG on Gambling Reform?
It’s a group of MPs from all parties working to improve gambling rules.

3. What changes are being suggested?
Lower bet limits, ban ads for kids, and reduce gambling ads in sports.

4. Why treat gambling as a health issue?
Because addiction harms people’s health, money, and relationships.

5. Why is this hard for the Labour Party?
They have taken money from gambling companies before.

6. What happens next?
The group will give its reform ideas to the government after September 2025.