UK Betting Adviser Bows Out Over Affordability Checks

By Natasa Milojevic, Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Things are far from peachy keen within the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group. One of the senior government advisers, Dr James Noyes, decided to resign over affordability checks that are supposed to be rolled out somewhere in June, 2026.

At this stage, players need to do a check-in after they’ve deposited £150 within 30 days. But once the new rules come into play, anyone who spends £1,000 in 24 hours or £2,000 within three months will get different treatment. Their total financial background gets automatically put under a microscope. 

Intrusive and super complex? 

Well, that’s pretty much Dr Noyes’ stance. He’s worried that the policy hasn’t been thoroughly evaluated, which could push players toward the black market.

Now, we’re looking at a really heated situation on the UK gambling horizon. Some claim the checks are there to protect vulnerable gamblers and promote responsible gambling. Others believe the checks are too intrusive and could damage legal betting companies in the long run. 

The controversy surrounding the affordability checks remains, and the Gambling Commission’s next board meeting is coming up on May 21. 

From the looks of it, the folks at the UKGC may not get swayed by Noyes’ kick in the teeth, but, who knows? It’s still not too late for a change of heart.

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