New UK Gambling Levy and Slot Limits Rolling Out in April
At the UK’s Betting & Gaming Council’s AGM on Thursday, 27 February, Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross revealed that the new statutory gambling levy will be coming into effect on April 6.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Furthermore, new bet limits for online slots will come into effect in April and May. First announced in November, the levy aims to generate £100 million annually to fund initiatives aimed at preventing gambling-related harm. The contribution required from gambling businesses will vary between 0.1% and 1.1% of their gross gambling yield (GGY), depending on their specific sector, business model, and the risk profile of the gambling products they offer.
Speaking to BGC members, Baroness Twycross confirmed that operators must submit their first levy payments by October 1.
It’s a huge step forward for the sector. It will see increased investment to expand projects and services to reduce harmful gambling. I know we have a shared aim in this area. I know the BGC has been largely supportive of the levy and we recognise the work done by the sector through the voluntary levy previously.
She also said that both parliamentary houses had approved the levy, officially making it law as of February 25.
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Independent Body to Oversee Levy Implementation
During a House of Lords debate on February 12, Baroness Twycross explained that the government is committed to ensuring that levy funds are used effectively. To achieve this, an independent statutory board will be established to oversee spending and assess the levy’s overall impact.
She explained that the levy structure is designed to be both fair and effective by finding a balance between the financial burden on licensees and ensuring they contribute to harm prevention efforts.
Related: UK Discuss Mandatory £100M Levy to Fund Gambling Harm Treatment
Online Slot Limits to Be Introduced in April and May
In addition to the levy, Baroness Twycross confirmed that new bet limits for online slots will come into force in two phases. From April 9, a £5 maximum stake per spin will apply to players over 25, while a stricter £2 limit will be enforced for players aged 18 to 24 starting May 21.
Originally proposed in February 2023, these limits were recently passed into law following discussions in both parliamentary houses. The changes align online slots with their land-based counterparts in terms of stake restrictions.
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