I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 375 together.
The Deputy raises a number of concerns about current gambling practices, mentioning in particular the conduct of advertising and promotions especially where those activities are directed at young persons. I hope to bring the Heads of a new Bill, provisionally entitled the Gambling Control Bill, to the Government soon, for its approval and for authorisation to have a Bill drafted. I am proposing that the new Bill should replace current systems. It will be a comprehensive measure, establishing a single regulatory regime to cover betting and gaming, whether by terrestrial or remote means and will include gambling on virtual and actual events.
My plans to reform the law on gambling arose from the realisation that the current laws are seriously outdated and need replacement by new statutory provisions that address current practices and lifestyles. The new legislation will have consumer protection as its core objective, with particular emphasis on the protection of vulnerable persons, which, of course, includes young persons. I will be including measures that will require licence holders to act in a socially responsible way. The measures will include controls on advertising, promotions and sponsorship. I envisage the creation under the new legislation of, in effect, a new inspectorate to promote compliance and it will have a full range of enforcement powers. I plan to make the Heads available on my Department's website following their approval by the Government, while formal drafting is under way.
