Agenda item

Ellie Greenwood, Senior Adviser introduced the report and informed the Board that there had been a lot of media activity focusing on betting shop clustering and Fixed Odd Betting Terminals (FOBTs) recently. There had recently been a change in the position of some of the biggest betting shops, who were keen for greater powers to be given to local authorities with regards to licensing betting shops. This included comments from the chairman of BetFred who would welcome back the demand test and the Chairman of William Hill who wanted to see a cumulative impact test brought in in relation to new betting shops.

Since the paper was circulated to Members, officers had been involved in meetings with both BetFred and PaddyPower, who were both interested to continue discussions, although PaddyPower raised concerns that some of the proposals suggested may be anti-competitive.

Members commented that the issues around betting were wider than just FOBT’s in betting shops: individuals were now able to place bets on their tablets, phones and other electrical devices. In most cases the industry encouraged people to play by offering free competitions, and the shops were open later than other licensed premises were.  Members also agreed that there was an issue with the clustering of shops.

Overall Members agreed it was the right time to talk with the leading betting shops. It was suggested that a short task and finish group be set up over a six month period, inviting all leading bookmakers to discuss issues and take forward a number of recommendations.

Members queried whether there had been any academic research into betting and issues surrounding addiction to gambling. Officers noted that although there is a significant body of evidence linked to betting shops and FOBTs, there is less agreement among the different interested parties.

Action

To establish a short task and finish group for a six month period, to look into making recommendations on issues surrounding betting shops.

Decision

Members noted the issues set out in the report