What's happened
Recent reports show a rise in gambling participation among 11-17-year-olds, mainly through legal or unregulated activities like arcade machines and private bets. Despite increased engagement, problem gambling rates remain stable at around 1.2%. MPs call for higher taxes on online gambling to curb harm and fund prevention efforts.
What's behind the headline?
The data indicates that the increase in youth gambling is driven primarily by legal and unregulated activities, not underage gambling encouraged by the industry. However, the stability in problem gambling rates suggests that current protections may be effective, but the rise in overall participation raises concerns about future harm. The MPs' push for higher taxes on online gambling products reflects a recognition that these forms are more addictive and harmful, and that taxation should be aligned with risk levels. Industry opposition, citing potential job losses and reduced funding for sports, complicates policy decisions. The debate underscores a broader tension between economic interests and public health, with the government facing pressure to balance revenue generation against safeguarding young people from gambling harms.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that youth gambling participation increased from 27% in 2024 to 30% in 2025, mainly through legal activities like arcade gaming and private bets, with problem gambling rates stable at 1.2%. The Guardian highlights MPs' calls for higher taxes on online gambling, criticizing industry claims of no social harm and warning that increased taxes could push players into unregulated markets. The MPs' report emphasizes the need to recognize different gambling risks and suggests that current tax structures may not adequately reflect harm levels. Industry representatives, including the Betting and Gaming Council, oppose tax hikes, arguing they threaten jobs and funding for sports, and advocate for safer gambling investments. Overall, the debate centers on balancing economic benefits with the need to reduce gambling-related harm among young people.
How we got here
The rise in youth gambling participation is linked to increased access to legal and unregulated gambling activities, such as arcade machines and private bets. The government and regulators are under pressure to address the potential harms, especially as online gambling becomes more prevalent and profitable, with the sector's profits rising significantly over recent years.
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