Updated on 19th May, 2026
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) is facing growing criticism over its affordability checks and financial risk assessments, which aim to protect players from gambling-related harm. A group of MPs has written to the Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, urging her to intervene and pause the rollout of these measures amid concerns about their impact on the gambling sector and personal privacy.
What Are Affordability Checks?
Affordability checks are part of the UKGC’s plan to assess whether players are gambling within their financial limits. They include financial risk assessments, potentially using credit reference data, to ensure customers can afford their gambling habits.
The UKGC claims that most checks will be conducted unobtrusively, without customers needing to submit documents, but some cases may require more detailed financial disclosures.
Criticism from MPs and Industry Leaders
The plans have been widely criticised by lawmakers and the gambling industry. Nineteen MPs, including those representing British racecourses, argue that affordability checks could harm the horseracing sector, which contributes £4 billion annually to the UK economy and supports around 85,000 jobs.
They question the UKGC’s claim that these measures will be “frictionless” for 97% of customers. Industry representatives warn the checks could alienate bettors and disrupt customer experiences, risking a decline in revenue for regulated operators.
Are there Risks of Illegal Gambling?
Critics also caution that intrusive affordability checks could push players towards unregulated, illegal gambling platforms. Treasury data shows a 522% increase in illegal gambling activity from 2021 to 2023, and there are fears that further restrictions could fuel this trend. The Betting and Gaming Council estimates government revenue losses of £300 million a year and up to £250 million in turnover losses for horseracing over five years if customers migrate to illegal sites.
Calls for Government Oversight
MPs have raised concerns about the UKGC proceeding with these measures independently, without sufficient input from the government. They are calling for a pause to assess the pilot scheme’s findings before permanent changes are implemented, arguing that ministerial oversight is essential.
Balancing Protection with Freedom
The affordability checks aim to address gambling harm, but critics argue they could backfire by driving players away from the regulated market and damaging key industries like horseracing. The challenge lies in finding a balance between consumer protection and preserving the freedoms of responsible gamblers.
For now, the UKGC’s pilot findings are under review, and the government’s next steps will be closely watched. Keep following OnlineGaming4u UK Gambling News for updates as the situation develops.
