Agenda item - Gambling Policy 2022-24 (As Revised)

19.1   The Committee considered a report of the Executive Director of Housing, Neighbourhoods and Communities requesting that the Committee consider and approve the Gambling Policy 2022-24 (as revised).

19.2   It was noted that it was a requirement the Gambling Act 2005 required Licensing Authorities to prepare a Statement (also known as a Policy) every three years setting out the principles which were applied when exercising their functions. Licensing Authorities were required to publish the statement following the procedure set out in the Act, including whom they should consult. Brighton and Hove’s gambling policies and practices had been highlighted by the Gambling Commission as examples of good practice, in particular the work and links developed with Public Health to tackle gambling related harm.

19.3   At its meeting on 24 June 2021, the Committee had received a report and had authorised officers to initiate consultation regarding a review of the council’s revised Gambling Policy.arose already been subject to a comprehensive review in 2016 and a further review in 2019 when further changes had been made which had included increasing awareness of mental health issues. The issues which arose as a result of addiction to gambling and the impact it had on individuals and their families could not be underestimated. This council’ policy was robust and she was happy to support it.

19.5    The Chair, Councillor Deane, referred to the incidence of on-line gambling and it was confirmed in answer to questions that available data indicated that this had increased during the pandemic and was in agreement with Councillor Simson that against that backdrop it was even more important that the council’s policy was rigorous.

19.6    The Members present voted unanimously in support of the report recommendations.

19.7    RESOLVED – (1) That Members of the Licensing Committee (Licensing Act 2003 Functions) agree to refer the final version of the Statement of Gambling Policy 2022-24 to Full Council for adoption (Appendix 1); and

          RESOLVED TO RECOMMEND TO COUNCIL – (2) That Council accepts the final version of the Statement of Licensing Policy as presented to it be agreed for adoption.