Editorial: What are the implications of deregulating the UK Gambling Laws?
| 25 May 2004 |
As reported by: Casino Man Observer
It seems that the recent movements in British gambling law have caused quite a stirring in the international gambling community. It is seen by many industry experts as a welcome change and by large multinational organisations as the next untapped market.
Whatever people are expecting, the reality, when it arrives, will surely be even more overwhelming. The initial plans of change to the gambling laws have sparked increased activity and interest in the current companies operating in the British market. These companies, along with others, have been approached by the major US companies to begin dealings in land, space and rights to build and open 'Las Vegas' style casinos in the UK.
Spaces which have been touted to become meccas include places like, the Millennium Dome in London, various spaces within football stadiums, London Olympia Centre, the Trocadero, and several coastal greenfield sites.
So what are the implications of this?
Well for a start, the legislation is not yet in place, however it has been largely speculated that the expectations of all concerned will more or less be met.
There are many who oppose the change. Clearly, as gambling has always been a subject of debate. Those who oppose are mostly concerned with the impact of the actual gambling itself on the UK population.
The effect of addiction, problem gambling and social impact, all of which can easily affect weaker willed individuals. However, the advocators of change have indicated that a sufficient amount of resources will be put towards help groups and organisations designed for problem gamblers.
From a certain perspective it seems that so long as there are support groups in place, it shouldn't affect the outcome of the changes. Let's face it, if a gambler wants to gamble, they will find a way to gamble.
Another clear argument that the effects touted by non-supporters are perhaps overstated is the fact that ever since the inception of the UK Lottery, the odd flutter has touched millions of people. If gambling was to adversely affect a large percentage of the population, this would have already been the case with the Lottery.
Admittedly playing a lottery is very different from casino games.
However this has only skimmed the surface of the complete package which is the 'Las Vegas' style. Gambling on casino games is entertainment, and with this comes the whole experience of entertainment that these new style casinos will bring.
Expect floor shows, magic shows, incredible architectural designs, shopping malls, theme park rides, cinemas, and a vast array of eateries.
Imagine the number of jobs created, the amount of trade and commerce that will be generated as a result of these places.
This is the supporter's argument. In the very long term, the UK Government will need to address the issue of help and support groups for gamblers, however in the shorter term, the immediate gains are undeniable.
To start there will be jobs for construction, architects, developers, builders and plumbers alike. The services will need suppliers, local businesses could profit from the increase in people in the general area. It's clear with deregulation, comes strong economic growth.
It's also clear that with growth in UK gambling would increase the amount which the UK government takes from gambling taxes. All of which would greatly help the rest of the economy in other areas of interest.
As a member state in the European Union, it would give the UK a small boost, but potentially also create a perception that the UK will become the gambling mecca of Europe, much like Las Vegas is perceived in the USA.
It seems the only thing which is clear, is that there will be dramatic changes which will create a series of rippling effects across the UK gambling industry.

Whatever people are expecting, the reality, when it arrives, will surely be even more overwhelming. The initial plans of change to the gambling laws have sparked increased activity and interest in the current companies operating in the British market. These companies, along with others, have been approached by the major US companies to begin dealings in land, space and rights to build and open 'Las Vegas' style casinos in the UK.
Spaces which have been touted to become meccas include places like, the Millennium Dome in London, various spaces within football stadiums, London Olympia Centre, the Trocadero, and several coastal greenfield sites.
So what are the implications of this?
Well for a start, the legislation is not yet in place, however it has been largely speculated that the expectations of all concerned will more or less be met.
There are many who oppose the change. Clearly, as gambling has always been a subject of debate. Those who oppose are mostly concerned with the impact of the actual gambling itself on the UK population.
The effect of addiction, problem gambling and social impact, all of which can easily affect weaker willed individuals. However, the advocators of change have indicated that a sufficient amount of resources will be put towards help groups and organisations designed for problem gamblers.
From a certain perspective it seems that so long as there are support groups in place, it shouldn't affect the outcome of the changes. Let's face it, if a gambler wants to gamble, they will find a way to gamble.
Another clear argument that the effects touted by non-supporters are perhaps overstated is the fact that ever since the inception of the UK Lottery, the odd flutter has touched millions of people. If gambling was to adversely affect a large percentage of the population, this would have already been the case with the Lottery.
Admittedly playing a lottery is very different from casino games.
However this has only skimmed the surface of the complete package which is the 'Las Vegas' style. Gambling on casino games is entertainment, and with this comes the whole experience of entertainment that these new style casinos will bring.
Expect floor shows, magic shows, incredible architectural designs, shopping malls, theme park rides, cinemas, and a vast array of eateries.
Imagine the number of jobs created, the amount of trade and commerce that will be generated as a result of these places.
This is the supporter's argument. In the very long term, the UK Government will need to address the issue of help and support groups for gamblers, however in the shorter term, the immediate gains are undeniable.
To start there will be jobs for construction, architects, developers, builders and plumbers alike. The services will need suppliers, local businesses could profit from the increase in people in the general area. It's clear with deregulation, comes strong economic growth.
It's also clear that with growth in UK gambling would increase the amount which the UK government takes from gambling taxes. All of which would greatly help the rest of the economy in other areas of interest.
As a member state in the European Union, it would give the UK a small boost, but potentially also create a perception that the UK will become the gambling mecca of Europe, much like Las Vegas is perceived in the USA.
It seems the only thing which is clear, is that there will be dramatic changes which will create a series of rippling effects across the UK gambling industry.
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