Issue - meetings

Council is asked to consider a recommendation from the Licensing Committee to approve the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028.

Council resolved to approve the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028.

To consider recommending adoption of the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028 to Council.

The Committee considered the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028 for recommendation to Council.

The Principal Licensing Officer presented the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028. Consultation on the policy had been undertaken, and the only substantial response received was from Gamcare. Gamcare had made a number of positive suggestions, though it was advised the suggestions be reviewed in the context of the Gambling Act Review and forthcoming white paper consultations. The proposed policy had been written in line with current legislation, and any changes to that legislation would prompt a review of the policy.

A member of the Committee felt the policy should be amended to address support for residents with gambling addiction, and sanctions for premises should be considered. The Principal Licensing Officer advised gambling premises were heavily regulated, and if there were any concerns about the operation of the premises, this would be reported to the Gambling Commission. Other members of the Committee felt it was appropriate to recommend the policy for adoption by Council to have a policy in place in a timely manner, and that the recommendations made by Gamcare could be considered when new legislation came into effect.

The Committee resolved by majority to recommend the adoption of the Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028 by full Council.

Councillor Clarke voted against the recommendation without the inclusion of an additional section related to gambling addiction.

To consider approval of the draft Statement of Gambling Policy 2025-2028 for consultation.

The Principal Licensing Officer presented the draft Gambling Act Policy 2025-2028 prior to it undergoing a four-week consultation by relevant authorities.

The Principal Licensing Officer explained that the Policy had only recently undergone a review and approval, and the only changes since it was last agreed were changes to formatting. The Committee’s attention was drawn to the list of consultees at the end of the policy.

A member of the Committee acknowledged the impact of gambling on vulnerable residents and queried if any further warning regarding gambling could be added to the policy. Other members of the Committee felt this was not necessary and noted this was not done on other policies. The Lawyer advised against additional wording as it may be read as an opinion.

The Committee resolved to approve the draft Statement of Gambling Policy 2025-2028 for consultation in accordance with the timetable set out in the report.