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Written question asked by Andrew Snowden (Conservative) on Thursday, 21 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 1 June 2026. It was answered by Ian Murray (Labour) on Thursday, 4 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Bookmakers

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps she is taking to ensure measures to reduce the number of High Street bookmakers does not lead to an increase in online gambling harms.

Answer

As part of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, the Government has now introduced Gambling Impact Assessments (GIAs). While the introduction of GIAs will strengthen local authorities’ powers to shape their streets and neighbourhoods, including the ability to put a presumption in place against the opening of new gambling premises, they will not be applied retrospectively and existing premises, including bookmakers, will not be affected.

The Government recognises that land-based gambling typically has a lower risk profile than online gambling. The Government is continuing to work with the Gambling Commission and the sector to strengthen player protections across the sector, both online and in physical venues, to ensure that people can continue to enjoy gambling, without the harms that can sometimes ensue.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
3983
Session
2026-27
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Bookmakers Gambling Internet Addictions
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk