Government reassures over gambling ads

by Our Parliamentary correspondent, Campaign 16-Mar-07

The Government has moved to reassure church leaders and MPs that new rules allowing casinos, betting shops and online gambling to advertise will not result in an explosion of gambling by young people.

Richard Caborn, the culture minister, said the Government would tighten
the code published this week by the Committee of Advertising Practice
and Broadcast Committee of Advertising Practice if it did not prove

tough enough.

Under the rules, ads must not link gambling to seduction, sexual success
or enhanced attractiveness, be irresponsible, lead to "financial, social
or emotional harm" or suggest gambling can improve self-image or
self-esteem. TV and radio ads will not be allowed during and around
programmes aimed at under-18s.

"We are not complacent and will monitor the impact of the new rules. If
they are insufficient to ensure proper public protection, the Government
will consider using its additional powers to impose further
restrictions," Caborn said.

A Church of England spokesman said: "As any gambling ad must present
positive reasons or inducements to engage in the activity, it is hard to
see how vulnerable persons can be protected totally from these effects."