At the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) Annual General Meeting 2025, Minister for Gambling Baroness Twycross reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to a safer and more responsible gambling industry, while supporting economic growth in the sector.

Key Policy Announcements

1. Statutory Gambling Levy Implementation

Baroness Twycross confirmed that the statutory gambling levy has now been passed into law and will take effect on April 6, 2025, with operators making their first payments by October 1. She acknowledged the BGC’s previous voluntary contributions and emphasized that the levy would provide long-term funding certainty for research, prevention, and treatment of gambling harm.

2. New Online Slots Stake Limits

The Minister announced the official dates for the implementation of online slots stake limits:

£5 stake limit – Effective April 9, 2025

£2 stake limit for younger adults (ages 18-24) – Effective May 21, 2025
She acknowledged the technical challenges of this transition and thanked the industry for its cooperation.

3. Modernization of Land-Based Casino Regulations

To encourage investment in the casino sector, the government will allow:

Up to 80 gaming machines per casino, with a sliding scale based on venue size

Sports betting in all casinos, expanding their product offerings

These reforms aim to boost economic growth in the casino and gaming machine manufacturing sectors.

4. Gambling Advertising and Sponsorship Review

Addressing concerns over gambling advertising, Baroness Twycross urged the industry to take the lead in assessing its impact, particularly on vulnerable individuals and young people. She emphasized the need for responsible advertising while recognizing its importance in differentiating licensed operators from the illegal market.

5. Crackdown on the Illegal Gambling Market

The Minister highlighted government efforts to combat illegal gambling, including a new provision in the Crime and Policing Bill. This will grant the Gambling Commission enhanced powers to swiftly remove illegal gambling websites and disrupt unlicensed operators.

A Collaborative Approach to Safer Gambling

Baroness Twycross concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to balancing industry growth with player protection. She expressed her willingness to continue working with the BGC and industry stakeholders to create a stronger, safer, and more sustainable gambling sector in the UK.