Gamble in Vegas

Casinos Can Now Advertise in the United Kingdom

Under proposed new rules published yesterday, casinos, betting shops and other forms of gambling can now advertise on television in the United Kingdom. The guidelines set out establish content restrictions for gambling advertisements in both the broadcast and print media.

It follows the Gambling Act 2005, which gives gambling operators greater scope to publicize their services. However, charities which help people with gambling addictions said last night that they fear a relaxation in the rules governing advertising will lead to an increase in problem gambling.

"Advertisements are designed to stimulate demand and so, as more people are exposed to these adverts, they may be more likely to gamble," said Captain Matt Spencer, a spokesman for the Salvation Army.

Print advertisements for all forms of gambling are heavily restricted under the present regime. At present television adverts for betting, gaming and lotteries are banned except for the National Lottery.

A public consultation on new rules to ensure gambling adverts are "socially responsible" was launched yesterday. The rules will take effect from September next year when the Gambling Act comes fully into force.

All types of media can be use by operators after that date providing they comply with the new content rules. The Advertising Standards Authority will police the new gambling adverts to ensure they comply with content guidelines.