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Alternatives to affordability checks for gambling

EDM (Early Day Motion) 71: tabled on 20 November 2023

Tabled in the 2023-24 session.

This motion has been signed by 4 Members. It has not yet had any amendments submitted.

Motion text

That this House welcomes the proposal for an app entitled Bettor Help by the Gamblers Consumer Forum which would offer an alternative to affordability checks and a clinical-based solution towards tackling gambling harm; notes there is no body of evidence that suggests that intrusive affordability checks curb addiction; further notes the sparse research that suggests addiction can be characterised by financial loss; urges the Government to consider the impact of affordability checks on British horseracing, an industry woven into the iconic sporting tapestry of our country and an economic powerhouse for job opportunities; further urges the Government to consider the consequences of using non-clinical solutions in addiction-related regulation, such as minimal pricing for alcohol in Scotland which actually saw alcohol-related deaths surge, and to contrast that with the successes of clinical solutions like clinical group therapy; encourages Members to note that Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading expert in addiction recovery who has treated over five thousand patients, contributed clinical screening questions to this proposal; and further encourages Members to note this app proposal has been overwhelmingly supported by 68% of the UK public following a poll conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Gamblers Consumer Forum.

The first 6 Members who have signed to support the motion are the sponsors. The primary sponsor is generally the person who tabled the motion and has responsibility for it. The date shown is when the Member signed the motion.

There are no withdrawn signatures for this motion.