Problem gambling ultimatum for British operators

British culture secretary Andy Burnham told MPs today that he would introduce legislation forcing licensed gambling operators of all types to donate more funding to problem gambling at the end of the year unless operators voluntary contribute more.

At the moment, only about 380 of the country’s 3,800 gambling companies have been paying into the Responsibility in Gambling Trust. The Trust’s annual target is USD 7.9 million, but Burnham says much more could be raised.

Some political oponents question whether Burnham’s ultimatum is a distraction from the government’s dropping its plans for a supercasino in Manchester, which Burnham officially cancelled today in his speech. Burnham also confirmed that plans for 16 new smaller casinos will continue.