- Joined
- Mar 31, 2005
Addressing the International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA), the UKGC's Andrew Rhodes emphasised the Gambling Commission’s ongoing commitment to leveraging its enhanced tools, including covert test purchasing and other investigative methods, to identify businesses facilitating unlicensed operators.
His remarks follow renewed scrutiny of the Commission’s policy in this area, particularly after Evolution disclosed late last year that its license was under review due to its games being accessible through unlicensed operators.
Rhodes underscored the Commission’s intensified focus on disrupting the supply chain and highlighted its significant investment in combating unlicensed football gambling.
This approach reflects a broader European regulatory trend, where authorities are increasingly targeting suppliers and payment providers to curb illegal activity, according to industry analysts.
When asked whether the Commission expects the industry itself to take responsibility for policing unlicensed gambling instead of relying solely on regulatory oversight, Rhodes expressed surprise at the notion.
Joining Rhodes at the event, Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chief executive Grainne Hurst reaffirmed that the organisation’s supplier members are committed to refraining from supporting illegal gambling.
Rhodes also addressed the complex and contentious nature of gambling regulation in the UK, noting that the challenges are unlikely to ease in the near future.
His remarks follow renewed scrutiny of the Commission’s policy in this area, particularly after Evolution disclosed late last year that its license was under review due to its games being accessible through unlicensed operators.
Rhodes stated: “If the Commission deems it necessary to suspend or revoke the license of any operator or supplier, their operations cease immediately. Whatever they are providing to you will stop—immediately."
“So, I would advise anyone relying on a third party to ensure they are confident in that relationship and the associated risks. If you suspect you are vulnerable, I would strongly suggest taking action now.”
Rhodes underscored the Commission’s intensified focus on disrupting the supply chain and highlighted its significant investment in combating unlicensed football gambling.
This approach reflects a broader European regulatory trend, where authorities are increasingly targeting suppliers and payment providers to curb illegal activity, according to industry analysts.
When asked whether the Commission expects the industry itself to take responsibility for policing unlicensed gambling instead of relying solely on regulatory oversight, Rhodes expressed surprise at the notion.
“Frankly, I don’t understand why any licensed business would choose to associate with a company that supports illegal competition. It defies logic and suggests that the illegal market may not be as significant an issue as some claim, if this is seen as acceptable behaviour.”
Joining Rhodes at the event, Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) chief executive Grainne Hurst reaffirmed that the organisation’s supplier members are committed to refraining from supporting illegal gambling.
Rhodes also addressed the complex and contentious nature of gambling regulation in the UK, noting that the challenges are unlikely to ease in the near future.
“With the Statutory Levy, Ombudsman, and other changes approaching, I question whether the frequent ‘absolutism’ we see in commentary from various stakeholders will persist.
“This ties into debates about data, statistics, and the evidence base. There’s a real danger that entrenched and overly simplistic positions may obscure the core issues entirely.”