Ministers to ban under 18s from playing National Lottery games
Gambling Laws: It's Time For Change
Under 18s will soon be banned from playing National Lottery games with Ministers set to introduce a new law to this end within months.
According the Sun on Sunday newspaper, the legislation will stop 16 to 17-year-olds from gambling on draw and scratch cards.
While gambling is illegal for under-18s, anyone aged 16 or over can play National Lottery Games.
The change in the law comes amidst growing criticism of the betting industry for exploiting children and young people.
Last year, Camelot, the company that owns the National Lottery launched scratch cards based on Love Island, a popular reality TV show with young people.
There are estimated to be 55,000 11-16 year olds addicted to gambling.
CARE is currently campaigning for a review of existing gambling laws as the first step towards a complete overhaul.
Responding to the reports of a ban on under 18s playing the National Lottery, CARE’s James Mildred said:
“It’s good to see the Government is considering closing the absurd loophole that allows 16-17 year-olds to play National Lottery scratch cards. Let’s hope these reports are true. Our analogue gambling laws are not fit for purpose in a digital age and it’s quite clear that change is needed.”
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Ministers to ban under 18s from playing National Lottery games