The British Gambling Commission has formally invited all licensed operators to submit their views on the most significant burdens currently affecting the sector.
The invitation forms part of the Commission’s 2026-2027 business plan, which is designed to encourage innovation while maintaining existing regulatory requirements across the industry.
The business plan also incorporates a review of industry proposals that assess the current state of regulations and how effectively they are being communicated to operators.
Findings from that review can then be used as a basis for formal advice to the Government, making this consultation an important step in shaping future policy direction.
“Legislation sits outside the Commission’s remit, but we are keen to understand what those constraints or restrictions may be and the impact they may have, particularly where there are interactions with our own requirements or guidance,” the Commission stated.
The Commission also confirmed that proposals related to issues beyond its remit would be directed to the appropriate bodies rather than dismissed outright.
Notably, feedback on live and current policy areas subject to ongoing consultation will not be taken into consideration as part of this process.
This exclusion most likely covers the increase in gambling taxes introduced in November, which prompted a significant number of operators to scale back their business operations to manage rising costs.
Operators have until the end of September to submit their proposals, which must be structured across several specific segments covering licensed activity type, relevant regulatory framework, and the nature of the burden identified.
Submissions should also include recommendations for how the Commission can address the issue, a cost assessment of any proposed action, and ideas for evaluating the long-term effects of that action.
Tim Miller, Executive Director for Research and Policy, said: “We want to hear from the industry about where regulation can be improved or streamlined without compromising the protections that consumers rightly expect.”
Miller added: “This is an opportunity to identify tangible changes that support innovation while ensuring regulation remains effective, proportionate and focused on keeping gambling fair and safe.”
The Commission’s willingness to engage directly with operators signals a more collaborative approach to regulation, one that balances consumer protection with the practical realities facing licensed businesses.
