The main parts of the draft Bill, designed to revamp Britain's outdated rules for the industry, were published in November last year. It creates a new regulator, the Gambling Commission, and introduces a Remote Gambling Licence for phone and internet businesses.
The draft seeks to balance protection for children and vulnerable adults with the needs of the gambling industry, particularly in light of the growth of the internet and other media which allow remote gambling.
The provisions published yesterday do not relate in particular to remote gambling, but include powers to void unfair bets and new arrangements for gambling in pubs and clubs and a revised offence of cheating.
Commenting on the draft, Gambling Minister Andrew McIntosh said:
"This is another step forward in the journey toward the much needed modernisation of gambling laws in the UK. We have made it clear from the start that we won't put the integrity of gambling at stake. The draft Bill shows that the only dead cert for people looking to cheat is that the Gambling Commission are ready, and will be on their case."
In summary the clauses:
Enable the proposed Gambling Commission to freeze suspicious bets pending an investigation. Where it concludes unfair practices may have taken place it will then have the power to void the bet entirely.
Broadly maintain the status quo for pubs and clubs. Pubs will be allowed two gaming (fruit) machines automatically with more available under licence.
Require pubs and clubs that run bingo games worth £1,000 a week or more to obtain a licence from the Gambling Commission.
Make gambling debts like any other consumer debt by repealing various provisions dating back to 1710 that prevent gambling debts from being enforced.
Provide for a revised offence of cheating.
More clauses await publication, including one on advertising and one on credit and inducements.
The draft is currently being considered by a parliamentary Joint Scrutiny Committee. It is due to report back to Parliament no later than 8th April. The Government will then consider the report and lay the Bill before Parliament as soon as time allows.